What are they?
Commonly known as age spots or liver spots, are flat tan, brown, or black spots that appear on the skin’s surface. These spots are caused by overactive pigment cells, triggered by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which accelerates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.
Age spots typically develop on sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms. While they may vary in size, age spots are generally flat and benign, posing no risk of cancer. Although more prevalent in middle age and older adulthood, younger individuals can also develop age spots, particularly if they frequently expose their skin to the sun without adequate protection.
While age spots are not cancerous, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist to evaluate any new or changing spots on the skin for peace of mind and proper management.
Common Causes
- Genetics
- Sun exposure
- Aging
What can I do?
- Improve diet
- Wear sunscreen
- Topical treatments