Actinic keratosis natural treatment options
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common skin condition caused by severe sunburns and sun exposure over many years. It can also be caused by elongated exposure to artificial sources of UV light, such as tanning machines. That's why we've created a list of actinic keratosis natural treatment options.
If left untreated, this skin condition can lead to skin cancer. People who are likely to suffer from this skin condition are those with fair skins, and the lesions can appear anywhere on the face and body, including bald scalps. The lesions are usually red, scaly patches and they look like sandpaper.
Fortunately, you can use actinic keratosis natural treatment to manage the lesions before they advance.
List of actinic keratosis natural treatment
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
You can use organic and raw apple cider both internally and externally to control AK. The acidic nature of this natural remedy helps to speed up the healing process.
For external application, use a cotton ball to apply it to the affected area 2 to 4 times every day. If this causes irritation, add water to the apple cider vinegar before you use it.
For internal use, add 1 to 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drink it at least twice a day.
2. Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
The use of organic coconut oil in the treatment of actinic keratosis is somewhat a diligent task, but it yields results in the long run. You need to apply the oil regularly on the spots. On the onset, the spots will turn red with a subtle burning feeling.
You should expect to start noticing a change within a month of using the oil. Try to apply organic virgin oil on the lesions once a day until they disappear.
3. Green Tea
Made from the leaves of a plant identified as Camellia sinensis, green tea is a celebrated type of tea that has been approved for various benefits. You can either apply it to the spot or drink it normally. Green tea has antimicrobial and astringent properties that are important in treating a variety of skin disorders.
Soak a bag of green tea in warm water and place it directly on the affected area. You can also chew the Camellia sinensis leaves or get green tea capsules, which you can buy at a local health food store.
If you drink green tea, don't take more than five cups a day as it can lead to irritability, diarrhea, and headaches.
4. Milk Thistle
This is another great actinic keratosis natural treatment that helps to prevent the advancement of the condition into skin cancer. Milk thistle is best used before the lesions start to appear. Ideally, if you leave in tropical areas, using it can help to prevent the spots from appearing. It works by guarding the skin against the harmful ultraviolet rays
Milk thistle is available in liquid extract and powder. You might want to view it as a preventive treatment.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Also known as melaleuca oil, tea tree oil can be used as a preventive and curative treatment of actinic keratosis. It has antimicrobial properties, and it's not recommended for internal use. Also, do not use it per se. Try diluting the oil with virgin coconut oil before applying to the affected area.
Like other treatments, ensure to use it daily until the spots start fading away.
6. Castor Oil
This oil is made by extracting the seeds of the castor plant. You need to apply the oil on the affected area to relieve the crusting, inflammation, and burning sensation caused by AK. It's also effective in reducing the spots caused by extended sun exposure.
However, keep in mind that you might need to use it for a longer period to see some progress in treatment.
7. Eggplant
You can also use eggplant to treat actinic keratosis. The best way to do this is to mix the eggplant with apple cider vinegar.
Simply mince eggplant in a jar and add apple cider vinegar to it. Place the jar in the refrigerator for about three days until the vinegar starts darkening. At this point, it's ready for use. Apply the mixture to the affected spots using a cotton swab at least three times a day.
You will start noticing results after a few weeks of using the combination.
Preventative measures of actinic keratosis
Taking preventive measures is the best approach to avoiding actinic keratosis. Limit extended exposure to the sun by using protective products or staying in shaded areas. Also, avoid tanning beds and machines.
However, should you get the condition, one of these actinic keratosis natural treatment options can be ideal for healing the lesions.
Resource link:
https://healthery.com/actinic-keratosis-natural-treatment/
