You may think winter means a break from sun damage, but harmful UV rays don’t take a season off. Even on cooler, cloudy days in Plantation, FL, your skin is still vulnerable to UV exposure—and that can lead to precancerous changes like actinic keratosis.
At Plantation Dermatology, Dr. Steven Barilla, a fellowship-trained, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, helps our patients protect and treat their skin year-round.
Winter Sun Still Damages Skin
While the sun feels less intense in winter, UV radiation remains strong enough to harm skin cells. In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explains that up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds.
While we rarely see snow here in Florida, UV rays can still reflect off sand, concrete, and water, reaching exposed areas like your face, ears, scalp, and hands. Those are the most common areas for precancerous skin growths to appear, which is why prevention of skin cancer in Plantation remains important even during the cooler months.
Recognizing Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis (AK) often appears as small, rough patches on sun-exposed areas of the skin. You might notice:
- Dry, scaly spots that feel like sandpaper
- Red or brown discoloration that doesn’t fade
- Tender or crusty patches that may itch or burn
These growths aren’t always dangerous, but they can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. If you’re concerned about actinic keratosis in Plantation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. Dr. Barilla offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options to help stop AK before it progresses.
Treatments for Actinic Keratosis
Early diagnosis makes AK treatment both simple and effective. Depending on the number and depth of lesions, treatments may include:
- Cryotherapy: Freezing precancerous cells for quick removal
- Topical creams: Helping your skin naturally shed damaged cells
- Photodynamic therapy: Using light to target and destroy abnormal skin cells
Some patients may also benefit from combination therapies. Dr. Barilla tailors each treatment plan to your unique skin type, level of sun damage, and medical history.
After AK treatment, preventive care is equally important. Dr. Barilla recommends a custom plan for you, including common measures such as using daily sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wearing wide-brimmed hats, and scheduling regular skin checks.
Plantation Dermatology uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques that keep your comfort and cosmetic results in mind. This even includes expert cancer removal procedures, if you ever need them. Dr. Barilla has specialized training in Mohs surgery, which involves removing cancerous cells layer by layer to limit tissue loss and minimize scarring. It offers up to a 99% cure rate for new cancers.
Actinic Keratosis Treatment in Plantation, FL
At Plantation Dermatology, we help you protect your skin year-round. Whether you’re concerned about a new rough spot or need preventive care, we’re here for you. Call 954-577-5161 or contact us to book your appointment today.
