Age Spots
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Age Spots Treatment Options

What Are Age Spots?

Age spots are rounded, flat parts of the skin with a light brown to black color that have sharply defined borders. Also called liver spots, they commonly occur on the face and back of the hands but can be found on any part of the body.

Age spots are formed by a concentrated increase in pigment in an area of the skin. As their name suggests, age spots are more common on those of us more advanced in years. They can occur on people of any age though, including children. Age spots are more prevalent on people who have spent a lot of time in the sun and are mainly caused by exposure to UV rays. This exposure can also come from prolonged use of tanning beds, which have been tied to an increased risk of skin cancer. Although age spots are harmless, they are sometimes found along with signs of cancer or pre-cancer since both can be the result of spending a lot of time in the sun.

What Causes Age Spots?

Age spots are also called liver spots or solar lentigines. UV rays accelerate the production of melanin – the pigment in your skin that gives it its color. This increase in melanin is your body’s way of trying to protect your skin. If melanin starts to group together in your skin it will cause a specific area to darken, causing what we call age spots. So the easy answer to what causes age spots is sun exposure. Fair-skinned individuals are more likely to be affected by UV rays and this makes them more susceptible to sun damage and getting age spots.

Age spots are not harmful and they are mainly a cosmetic concern. They can, however, sometimes be confused with other kinds of skin growths including moles and even skin cancer. Remember that whenever you get a tan or sunburn it means your skin has been damaged. This sun damage can lead directly to age spots and other signs of premature aging.

It is good to learn how to check yourself for skin cancer so that you know what could be harmful. Regular full body screenings for skin cancer with your dermatologist are important but between appointments you can help by performing A-B-C skin checks in the mirror.

When you see your dermatologist they will look at your age spots and ask you some questions about your skin. If your dermatologist is not able to tell immediately what kind of growth you have they may do a test to be certain before they recommend a treatment. After a visual inspection a biopsy may be performed, which involves taking a small piece of the growth and sending it to be examined microscopically. If you do have age spots, there are different options including over-the-counter medication and treatments done in your dermatologist’s office.

Creams

Prescription and over-the-counter lightening creams can help fade age spots. Creams can take several months for results to be apparent, and they work by bleaching or changing the color of the darkened areas of skin.

Lasers

Lasers can target melanin and melanocytes or resurface the skin to remove sun damage. Some lasers target specific pigments in the skin and leave the surrounding tissue unharmed. Other lasers resurface the skin, which means they remove skin cells on the surface that are damaged to reveal new skin cells underneath. Lasers have been used in dermatology for many years now and dermatologists have often been pioneers of new uses for them including to treat scars and remove tattoos.

Microneedling

Microneedling, also called Collagen P.I.N., causes small injuries to the skin with “micro” needles. This allows damaged skin to be healed over with new skin. A few treatments are usually needed for best results.

Chemical Peel

chemical peel involves applying a layer of chemicals on the skin, which are then peeled off to remove the top layer of damaged skin cells. The result is a fresh complexion with renewed skin cells and diminished skin imperfections

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Prevention

Many of the same recommendations for preventing skin cancer apply to age spots as well. When going out in the sun always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply regularly. Avoid the sun when it is strongest in the afternoon and wear protective clothing including a broad-brimmed hat.


Frequently Asked Questions

What does an age spot look like?

Similarly to moles, age spots are oval and circular markings that appear on our skin as we age. These can be black, tan, or brown and they usually appear in the areas that have had the most sun exposure over the years. This includes the back of your hands, face, shoulders, upper back, and the tops of your feet.

What gets rid of age spots?

Age spots occur naturally, but there are many alternatives to eliminate these signs of aging. These include topical creams, lasers, chemical peels, and other alternatives. However, you need to consult with a certified skin expert that can help you identify the best course of treatment depending on your goals and skin type.

Can age spots turn into cancer?

Age spots are not cancerous, but they can often be confused with actinic keratosis, which may develop into skin cancer. As a result, keep in mind that both skin cancer and age spots tend to occur in areas that normally undergo heavy sun exposure. Always consult with an experienced dermatologist before initiating a treatment plan.

Do age spots appear suddenly?

Age spots tend to appear gradually, but they usually go unnoticed. This leads patients to believe that it is actinic keratosis or a similar skin condition. If you are not sure whether there are age spots or other lesions appearing on your skin, get in touch with a dermatologist in your area and book a consultation.

Why am I suddenly getting brown spots on my face?

There are many reasons why you may be getting brown spots on your face. While these may be age spots, there are various types of skin lesions that can be confused with these natural marks, so always consult with a professional to avoid potential complications.

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