AGE SPOTS

Age spots sometimes referred to as “liver spots” or solar lentigines, are flat gray, brown or black spots found on the skin. They vary in size and usually appear on the face, hands, shoulders, and arms. Age spots are caused by consistent exposure to the sun, and therefore generally occur in adults older than 40, though they can affect younger people ae well. Most of the age spots are harmless and do not require treatment.

TREATMENT

If you are unhappy with the appearance of age spots, there are a variety of treatment options aimed at lightening or removing age spots. Because the pigment causing the discolored skin is located at the topmost layer of skin, or the epidermis, treatments intending to lighten age spots must penetrate this layer of skin

Some of the available treatment option includes:

Prescription bleaching creams applied over several months may gradually fade age spots. While undergoing this treatment, sun protection is strongly advised.

Laser therapy destroys extra melanocytes that create the dark pigment. This treatment does not damage the skin's surface and has few side effects. However, laser therapy generally requires several sessions and can be expensive.

During cryotherapy, liquid nitrogen or another freezing agent is applied to the age spots to destroy extra pigment. The skin appears lighter as the area heals. Cryotherapy is generally effective, though it does poes the risk of scarring or permanent skin discoloration.

This procedure involves "sanding down", or planing the surface layer of your skin with a rotating brush. It removes the skin surface, and a new skin layer grows in its place. Side effects may include scabbing and temporary redness and irritation.

A chemical peel can also help fade spots. There are 2 types of chemical peel: Superficial and medium depth. Superficial peel requires more treatment before you notice results, whereas medium- depth peel go deeper and the results become apparent sooner.

PREVENTION

Age spots are very easily prevented by limiting sun exposure and protecting the skin at all times when exposed. This may include:

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Wearing sunscreen at all times.

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Remembering to protect skin even when sun damage does not appear to be a risk, such as on a cloudy day or while driving.

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Wearing protective clothing such as hats. 

FAQ ABOUT AGE SPOTS

Are age spots cancerous?

Though age spots are generally harmless, it is important to never assume a skin lesion is benign. See Last Name(s) if you notice a lesion on your skin, and especially if it changes in color or shape.

Will my insurance cover treatment?

Because age spot treatments are considered cosmetic, your insurance may not cover it.

Does tanning cause age spots?

Tanning does contribute to age spots. Tanning is extremely unhealthy, because “a tan” is your body’s way to tell you your skin has been damaged and is its attempt to protect itself from further damage. Aside from age spots, tanning can lead to a host of problems for your skin, including skin cancer. Last Name(s) recommends you never expose your skin to tanning beds, and always wear sunscreen in direct sun exposure.