Causes and Risk Factors

What causes actinic keratoses?

AK lesions develop after years of exposure to the sun and are caused by a chemical reaction in the skin. The build-up of the sun's rays changes the size, shape and structure of the cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. Sometimes the damage goes deeper to the inner layers of the skin.

Are you at risk?

If you answer yes to any of the questions below, you may be at risk.

Intense sun exposure
  • Have you spent a lot of time in the sun or had severe sunburn at one time or another during your life?
Skin color and sensitivity
  • Is your skin pale?
  • Do you freckle or easily burn in the sun?
Hair and eye color
  • Do you have blonde or red hair?
  • Do you have blue, hazel or green eyes?
Your health
  • Do you have a weak or compromised immune system? (This may be a result of certain illnesses or medicines.)
Your age
  • Are you over 40?
Where you live
  • Do you live in a part of the country that receives high-intensity sunlight year round, such as Florida or California? (Even teenagers in these areas can develop AKs)

Important Product Safety Information

SOLARAZE® (diclofenac sodium-3%) Gel is indicated for the topical treatment of actinic keratoses (AKs).

Sun avoidance is indicated during SOLARAZE® Gel therapy. The safety of using sunscreens, cosmetics or topical medications while being treated with SOLARAZE® Gel is not known. Do not get SOLARAZE® Gel into eyes.

As with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), severe allergic reactions may occur in patients without prior exposure to diclofenac. Patients who are allergic or sensitive to aspirin and/or other NSAIDs, who also have asthma and nasal polyps, may have a condition known as the aspirin triad and should tell their doctor before beginning therapy.

SOLARAZE® Gel should be used with caution in patients with active stomach ulcers or bleeding and severe kidney or liver impairments. SOLARAZE® Gel should not be applied to open wounds, skin infections or any skin that shows signs of irritation.

In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions involved the skin and included contact dermatitis, rash, dry skin and exfoliation (widespread reddened and peeling skin).

SOLARAZE® (diclofenac sodium-3%) Gel Full Prescribing Information.