Q: My doctor told me that I have pre-cancers on my face. I am concerned that they may turn into skin cancer. I do not want to give up boating. What should I do?

A: It sounds like you were diagnosed with Actinic Keratoses (AK). Actinic Keratoses or Solar Keratoses are a very early stage in the development of skin cancer. Usually they are rough spots found in sunexposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, chest, lower arms and backs of hands. They are more common in fair-skinned individuals with a history of sun exposure. The good news is that AKs are easily treatable. Treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing), topical chemotherapy (applying a cream, lotion or gel), chemical peeling, dermabrasion, laser, curettage, photodynamic therapy (applying a chemical and exposing the areas to a light source). The concern is that some AKs may progress to Squamous Cell Carcinoma, an advanced form of skin cancer which requires more aggressive forms of treatment and usually surgery. If you were diagnosed with AKs, see your doctor and have these areas treated. You do not have to give up boating however practicing safe sun habits is essential. Daily use of a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. Reapply a minimum of every 2 hours or after swimming or perspiration. Always wear UV protective sunglasses and a hat. Remember to check in with your dermatologist at least twice a year because AKs tend to recur. Good luck.

Q: I spend 3 months a year in Southwest Florida. When I return home up North, it looks like I have a moustache. I get these brown areas right above my lip. They last about 6 months and darken with sun exposure. What can I do?

A: You have a skin condition called melasma. It is a condition caused by the overproduction of "melanin" a substance produced by the skin which gives skin its color. The combination of female hormones (present during pregnancy, nursing and during the use birth control pills) and sunlight can trigger this condition. However it can happen in women who are not pregnant, nursing or on birth control pills. It can also rarely happen in men. This condition is characterized by lacy brown patches which can appear on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip area. There are many treatment options available for melasma. No treatment would be complete without the regular use of a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Prevention is key, especially in very sunny geographic areas such as Southwest Florida! See your dermatologist to discuss options to fade these brown spots away. Enjoy your time here!

Q: What can I do about the freckles and creepy texture on my chest? I look like my grandmother and I am only 39! Help!

A:Always apply sunscreen to this area and keep it covered whenever possible. The skin on the chest is quite thin and hence vulnerable to the sun's rays. There are a variety of treatment options to smooth the skin and create a more even tone. They include prescriptions for skin lightening agents and tretinion. Also, there are many in-office procedures such as intense pulsed light (IPL), laser, chemical peels and microdermabrasion which can be of great help. Ask your dermatologist about what is right for you.

The above information is by no means a substitute for a visit to your doctor. For more information on these topics, visit www.aad.org

- Dr. Andrea Cambio
Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
Andrew’s Professional Center
316 Del Prado Blvd. S. Suite 201
Cape Coral 829-7102
dracambio@gmail.com

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