Age spots

Age spots, which are also called liver spots or solar lentigines, are flat, oval spots that appear on areas of your body that are most exposed to the sun - the face, backs of the hands, tops of the feet, shoulders, upper back, and arms. Age spots vary in size and can be tan, brown, or black in color.

Age spots are very common in adults older than age 50. But, younger people can get them too, especially if they spend a lot of time in the sun. Age spots typically develop in people with fair complexions, but people with darker skin can also get them. While age spots are sometimes called “liver spots,” they have nothing to do with the liver or liver function.

Age spots can look like cancerous growths, but true age spots are harmless and do not require treatment. For cosmetic reasons, age spots can be lightened with skin-bleaching products or removed. However, you can maintain your skin's youthful appearance by preventing age spots by avoiding the sun and using sunscreen.

Age spots can look like cancerous or precancerous growths, so is it important to always let your health care provider know if you have any new or unusual spots and have them checked.

Age spots are caused primarily by years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun. The use of commercial tanning lamps and tanning beds can also contribute to the development of age spots.

The pigment in the upper layer of skin (epidermis) that gives your skin its normal color is called melanin. UV light accelerates the production of melanin, creating a tan that helps protect deeper layers of skin from UV rays.

Age spots appear when melanin becomes "clumped" or is produced in particularly high concentrations, such as on areas of the skin that have years of frequent and prolonged sun exposure.

Some people have a hereditary predisposition to age spots. Age spots may develop at an early age, even in childhood, though they are more common in older people, especially in those who have spent too much time in the sun.

Age spots are harmless, but have a doctor or dermatologist check any spot that changes in size, shape, or color, has an irregular border, itches, or bleeds, as these can be signs of skin cancer.