Pre- and Post-Treatment Care for Actinic Keratoses: An Australian and New Zealand Consensus

ABSTRACT

Background : Actinic keratoses (AKs), also known as solar keratoses, are precancerous skin lesions that typically occur following long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation. AKs can evolve into cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) if left untreated. Treatments for AKs typically cause temporary, irritable erythematous skin barrier disruption.

Objective : The objective of this article is to provide recommendations for the pre-treatment and post-treatment care for AKs in order to improve patient outcomes, particularly in the Australian and New Zealand setting.

Discussion : Many treatments for Actinic Keratoses (AKs) have associated side effects that can affect skin barrier function. Therefore, comprehensive pre- and post-treatment care is essential to help prepare, repair, and protect the skin. Patients should be thoroughly instructed on how to care for their skin throughout the entire management period, utilizing appropriate dermocosmetics such as gentle skin cleansers, healing moisturisers, and specifically urea to prepare the skin. Furthermore, routine sun protection measures applied all year round are crucial to reduce the risk of recurrence and new lesion formation.