Treatment Options

There are several treatment options for AKs. Your doctor will discuss them with you and decide which one is right for you. Some of the treatments are done in the doctor's office, while there are topical creams and gels that can be applied at home.

Some common treatment options include:

  • Freezing, also called cryosurgery

    A very cold substance, such as liquid nitrogen, freezes the AKs, making them shrink and eventually fall off. This may cause blistering, peeling, pain, redness or swelling.

  • Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

    An agent is applied onto the skin to make it more sensitive to light. An intense laser light is then used to destroy the damaged skin cells. This may cause pain, redness or swelling.

  • Topical medications

    There are FDA approved medicated creams and gels that you apply directly to AK lesions and the surrounding area. While they may work in different ways, they generally work with your body to block or destroy the harmful cells within the AK lesion. These medications may cause redness and pain. Some can be more irritating than others and may have harsh side effects.

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.