I'm on day 8 out of a projected 3 week treatment for AK. I knew to expect redness and considerable discomfort, so I've planned this for my slowest work month (june), but as I get farther into this and read more on this message board, it seems like I'm barely going to look presentable when I get back into the classroom in September.
My face is seriously mottled with red and it stings/itches just as most messages report. As of about day 7, some small specks of dry skin started flaking off. Aquaphor ointment seems to help but it's thick enough that you have to rub the already painful areas just to spread the ointment. Today I tried warming it every so slightly just to make it spread easier.
Sleeping is tough but possible, especially if I fall asleep facing up. But if I roll onto my side or stomach, my face tocuhes the pillow and I wake up; after that getting back to sleep is very tough.