Overview
Years of tanning and enjoying the sun without proper protection may lead to skin damage. In addition to wrinkles and dry skin, sun exposure also causes patches of pigmented skin called age or liver spots. Age spots are harmless discolorations, but a dermatologist can determine whether the spot is truly an age spot or a sign of more serious sun damage, such as skin cancer.
Appearance
Age spots, also called lentigines or sun spots, appear as flat oval or round skin discolorations, according to the Mayo Clinic. The spots can be brown, black or gray and range in size from a freckle-like speck to several centimeters across. The spots occur on areas with the most sun exposure, usually the hands, face, arms or shoulders. People with fair skin are more likely to develop age spots, although they can also occur in people with darker complexions. Other signs of sun damage may occur with age spots, such as wrinkles, dry or rough skin, and fine red lines, especially on the nose, cheeks or ears.
Causes
Prolonged sun exposure causes age spots, explains Eric F. Bernstein, M.D., an associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School and advisor to the website The Patient’s Guide. Specialized skin cells called melanocytes produce the pigment melanin, which gives skin its color. Melanin production increases in response to sun exposure to protect the skin from damaging ultraviolet rays, giving the skin a darker tan color. Age spots occur when the epidermis produces unusually high quantities of melanin or when the pigment cells bunch together, says the Mayo Clinic. Although age spots may occur at any age, they are more common in people older than 40 years. The spots usually develop over time with prolonged sun exposure.
Treatment
Age spots do not require medical treatment, but they may be lightened for cosmetic reasons. Over-the-counter bleaching creams and lotions may be effective if used regularly, notes the Mayo Clinic. Look for products containing deoxyarbutin, kojic acid, hydroquinone or glycolic acid for best results. Prescription medications may fade spots over time, and procedures such as laser removal, cryotherapy, dermabrasion or chemical peels may help remove areas of excess pigment. These procedures remove layers of skin, allowing the growth of new, unblemished skin to cover the area. The techniques may cause temporary redness or scabs, or permanent scarring.
Prevention
Avoiding UV rays, either from natural sunlight or tanning beds and lamps, helps prevent age spots. Always use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, advises the Mayo Clinic, and apply the lotion 30 minutes before sun exposure. Stay out of the sun during peak intensity (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves, when outside. Car windows do not block all types of UV rays, so Bernstein recommends installing protective film on the windows.
Cautions
Age spots can mimic skin cancer lesions. See a dermatologist whenever you notice a previously undetected spot or discoloration for a proper diagnosis, says Bernstein. Monitor age spots for changes in shape or color, or if the border of the spot looks irregular.
About this Author
A medical writer for 25 years, Cheryl Jones assists researchers in writing articles for various medical journals, including the “New England Journal of Medicine” and “Headache.” Her news articles have appeared in specialty publications, such as “Infectious Diseases in Children,” “Ocular Surgery News” and “Hem/Onc Today.” Jones holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism with a minor in biology from New Jersey’s Glassboro State College.
