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Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a growing and often overlooked skin condition. It manifests as rough, scaly patches on various body areas, including the face, lips, ears, scalp, forearms, and hands.
The primary cause of solar keratosis is prolonged and unprotected exposure to UV radiation from the sun over the years. This condition is considered pre-cancerous as it can progress to skin cancer if left untreated.
Fortunately, multiple treatment options are available for actinic keratosis, with home remedies being the preferred choice due to their affordability and convenience. However, it is essential to consult a doctor to assess the severity of the condition before pursuing home treatment.
In this article, we highlight excellent ways through which you can treat Actinic Keratosis at home:
Apple cider vinegar for actinic keratosis
Apple cider vinegar, commonly called ACV, is an excellent home remedy for actinic keratosis. As a ‘magic cure-all,” it is a preferred remedy for most skin conditions. This includes actinic keratosis.
Using a Q-tip or a cotton ball, apply some apple cider vinegar directly to the affected area, cover it with a bandage overnight and remove it in the morning. Due to the acidic nature of the vinegar, the affected area may appear white but heals with continuous application.
Prevention
Well, prevention is better than cure. Actinic Keratosis can be prevented by avoiding intense sunlight, an excellent solution for those living in hot areas.
Applying sunscreen after swimming or outdoors is the best way to combat harmful UV radiation. Having regular skin checkups is also another effective way of preventing Actinic Keratosis.
Vitamins
Vitamins are essential in maintaining flawless and healthy skin. The body uses vitamins to produce dermal cells, a cover from the sun’s ultraviolet B radiation, thus preventing Actinic Keratosis.
Funnily, the skin can synthesize essential vitamin D from exposure to average sunlight radiation. However, fruits and dark-green vegetables are also excellent sources of vitamins.
Milkweed
Milkweed, or Ingenol mebutate, is an extract from non-invasive weed. During the first phase, the sap is applied to the affected area once a day for three consecutive days.
Acute inflammation is a common side effect of milkweed. The cancer cells are killed and destroyed during the medication’s second and third phases.
Eggplant
The eggplant, scientifically known as the Solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides (BEC5), has proven to be effective in treating skin cancer.
Recent research attests that eggplant is productive when mixed with Apple Cider Vinegar. The eggplant-ACV mixture destroys cancerous cells leaving healthy tissues.
You can make eggplant syrup at home by following these simple steps:
- Take a small amount of ground eggplant
- Place it in a container jar and add equivalent apple cider vinegar until the contents of the eggplant are submerged.
- Put the mixture into a cold container, preferably a refrigerator, until the ground vinegar darkens.
- Remove it from the fridge and apply it to the affected area continuously.
Castor Oil
Though not as successful as milkweed, castor oil can be an excellent home remedy for Actinic Keratosis.
Due to its nature, castor oil reduces the burning and inflammation of the lesions. In the long run, this eradicates the wounds leaving your skin shining.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is the best remedy for Actinic Keratosis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Tea tree oil is a product of the melaleuca’s leaves. It is obtained through simple distillation. Tea tree oil helps repair skin lesions by forming new tissue.
The antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil mean it cannot be taken orally; therefore, before using it, mix it with a favourable oil to work effectively. Continue applying the mixture until it ends the effects of the pre-cancerous Actinic Keratosis.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle helps treat skin cancer resulting from UV ray exposure. Milk thistle reduces the radials that may result in skin cancer. Although it is not health-friendly for all skin types, milk thistle is a sure way of treating Actinic Keratosis.
It can be taken in different forms, such as capsules, powder, or liquid extract.
Green Tea
Green tea is an excellent cure for skin ailments, whether orally or when applied. Due to its astringent properties, green tea is a perfect treatment for Actinic Keratosis. Drinking green tea daily reduces the effect of the sun’s UV light on your skin.
To reduce the effect it may have on the skin, place a soaked green tea pack on the affected area; this minimizes the impact of the sun’s rays on your skin. Even with its health benefits, green tea should be taken in small amounts to reduce the side effects such as headaches.
Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is another cure for Actinic Keratosis. Although it may take time, the results are noticeable with time. The spots that appear on the scalp, face, nose, and forehead disappear with time.
Even with its application, these spots may increase; the affected areas will turn red and itch a little before disappearing as the skin becomes softer.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is used as ascorbic acid since it is unstable in solution. Vitamin C reduces pain and swelling caused by cryotherapy treatment, resulting in quicker healing. This results in skin repair after the treatment with ascorbic acid.
Diet
Maintaining a healthy diet is vital to preventing Actinic Keratosis. Consumption of vegetables and fruits daily dramatically reduces the chances of developing skin cancer. Vegetables like broccoli and citrus fruits are the best since they are rich in Vitamin C and anti-cancer properties.
A proper diet of vegetables and grains helps to boost the immune system. Foods rich in omega-3 and fatty acids are also useful in maintaining healthy skin and preventing melanoma since they add an extra layer of protection.
Conclusion
There you have it, 12 points to help you prevent Actinic Keratosis. Before you try them out, seek approval from a medical expert. Actinic Keratosis, a pre-cancerous skin condition caused by UV radiation, can be effectively treated using home remedies. Apple cider vinegar, known for its healing properties, can be applied directly to promote recovery. Prevention is crucial; avoiding intense sunlight and applying sunscreen can reduce the risk. Incorporating vitamins through nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables maintains healthy skin and protects against the condition. Remedies like milkweed, eggplant-ACV mixture, castor oil, tea tree oil, milk thistle, green tea, organic virgin coconut oil, and vitamin C have positive effects. Consult a medical professional before trying any of these remedies. Follow these recommendations to prevent and treat Actinic Keratosis.
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