Is That Dry Skin - Or Could It Be Something More?

Dry patch or danger sign?

It’s easy to dismiss a flaky or rough spot on your skin as dry skin - especially here in Naples, Florida, where sun exposure and salt air can take a toll. But not all rough patches are harmless.

At Naples Dermatology, we often see patients who delay appointments, assuming the spot will go away. In some cases, those patches turn out to be actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions) or early squamous cell carcinoma.

How to Tell the Difference

• Dry skin usually improves with moisturizers

• Actinic keratosis feels like sandpaper and returns in the same spot

• Skin cancers may flake, crust, or bleed—and won’t respond to lotion

If you’ve tried over-the-counter treatments and a spot is still there after a few weeks, it’s time to schedule a skin check.

Common Conditions That Can Mimic Skin Cancer

• Seborrheic dermatitis – scaly, red patches (often mistaken for eczema or AK)

• Psoriasis – thick, scaly plaques that can be confused with SCC

• Eczema – itchy, dry patches that usually improve with cortisone

• Actinic keratosis – feels rough, may appear pink, and can progress to cancer

When in Doubt, Check It Out

We recommend seeing a board-certified dermatologist if:

• The patch has been there more than 4 weeks

• It bleeds, scabs, or crusts repeatedly

• It’s growing or changing in color

• It doesn’t respond to moisturizers or OTC creams

Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early. If you’re in Naples or Park Shore and concerned about a persistent skin issue, give us a call.