Sunspots and sun damage, sometimes referred to as liver spots or age spots, are small, flat and dark areas on the skin. They typically show up on parts of the body that receive a lot of sun exposure such as the face, hands, arms and shoulders. Most common in older people, anyone can get them if they spend too much time exposed to the sun.
Sunspots are most common in adults with light skin but they can appear on anybody. Signs of sun damage include:
The cumulative effect of sun damage leads to varying physical changes to the skin. Sun-damaged skin doesn’t only present itself in the way of sunspots; there are many other conditions that can result from sun damage, which include:
Sunspots or sun damage are caused by exposure to the UV light in the sun or in commercial tanning beds. This exposure causes the pigment cells in the skin to become overactive. The result is an excess of melanin (skin pigment) in the areas exposed to the sun, which leads to the brown or black color of sun spots. Those with lighter skin tones or who have a history of sunburn or excess sun exposure are more likely to develop the condition.
Most sunspots are harmless and do not require treatment. However, they can be a sign of more serious sun damage. While most sunspots are not cancerous, some types of sun damage can lead to skin cancer. If you have any concerns about sunspots, it is best to see a dermatologist for evaluation.
Sunspots do tend to fade over time, but they may never go away completely. Some people may find that their sunspots gradually become less noticeable with time, while others may find that their sunspots remain the same. If you are concerned about the appearance of your sunspots, there are a number of cosmetic and surgical dermatology treatments that can help, including topical creams, laser therapy, and cryotherapy.
The best way to prevent sunspots is to avoid excessive sun exposure. When you are in the sun, be sure to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Seek shade when possible, and avoid being in the sun during the peak hours of 10am to 4pm. If you are using a tanning bed, be sure to wear protective eyewear and avoid overexposure.
While most sunspots are harmless and do not require treatment, there are a number of treatments that can help improve the appearance of sunspots and other sun damage, including topical creams, laser therapy, and brightening peels.
