Most notably they occur on the face, ears, neck, forearms and hands in older patients. They are usually not painful or itchy, but may sting when exposed to sunlight, or if they are rubbed or scratched.

Solar Keratoses are not a skin cancer, but occasionally over time may evolve into a Bowen’s disease or squamous cell carcinoma.

Treatment includes sunscreen, cryosurgery, topical chemotherapeutic agents, PDT and curettage and diathermy.

Solar Keratoses formation indicates intensely sun damaged skin and is a warning sign that the skin is prone to developing skin cancer. Skin surveillance by Dr Banky is recommended.