Actinic keratosis is a change to the surface of the skin characterised by a reddish, rough surface. This is caused by UV light and is a precursor to a squamous cell carcinoma. At Skin & Aesthetic, we treat actinic keratosis with photodynamic therapy, laser treatment or the local application of creams depending on the case.

Basaliomas are a type of white skin cancer and are primarily found on areas of the face exposed to sunlight. They slowly widen and deepen, destroying the surrounding tissue but do not form additional tumours (metastases). The problem is generally solved by surgically removing the tumour. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) can help as an additional course of treatment.


Spinaliomas are another type of white skin cancer and they are usually found in the top level of skin. Unhindered growth allows this type of cancer to destroy considerable amounts of surrounding tissue. Metastases can be prevented by removing this type of tumour at an early stage. Actinic keratoses – i.e. reddish, flaky and horny, dry areas of skin – are a known precursor to this. There are numerous therapeutic options available to prevent this type of issue transitioning into a malignant stage.

The malignant melanoma is a particularly malignant form of skin cancer. It originates from pigment cells (melanocytes and nevus cells) and can appear as flat, nodular or extensive skin changes. In almost all cases, the surgical removal of the tumour is the first choice therapy. If identified at an early stage, the chances of making a recovery are good. Many melanomas are discovered by patients themselves as a melanoma is truly the “ugly duckling” among all the types of pigment spots!.