Actinic keratosis

Advise all patients with AK to avoid sun exposure, particularly between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m, and to use sun protection.[48]Eisen DB, Asgari MM, Bennett DD, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of actinic keratosis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021 Oct;85(4):e209-33. https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(21)00502-8/fulltext http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/33820677?tool=bestpractice.com Broad-spectrum sunscreens must include protection against UVA and UVB with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher, with water-resistance protection labeling for 40 or 80 minutes of swimming or sweating.

To prevent the development of photosensitivity, permanent pigmentary alterations, and scarring, it is particularly important for patients to avoid sun exposure and use sun protection:

• For the initial 48 hours after photodynamic therapy

• Up to 2 weeks after any chemical peels

• During treatment with imiquimod, fluorouracil, or diclofenac

• After any of the destructive treatments.

Patients should be advised not to scratch to avoid secondary infection and bleeding.