Age spots, also called liver spots, are common in adults over 40. These mild imperfections appear as small, discolored, flat-to-the-skin areas. They vary in size from a large freckles to the size of a dime. Age spots are harmless and do not require treatment. However, there are cosmetic treatments available that can help lighten noticeable spots. Here’s a look at why and where age spots develop.
Why Do They Develop?
Age spots are caused by years of exposure to light from the sun. Commercial tanning lamps and tanning beds can also cause age spots to develop. The upper layer of your skin contains melanocytes, which are skill cells that produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives your skin color. Sunlight speeds up the production of melanin, leading to a tan that protects deeper layers of your skin from sun rays.
The speckled appearance of age spots is the result of melanin produced in excess. Areas of your skin that have had years of sun or other UV light exposure are more susceptible to age spots. This is especially true if you have fair skin. Age spots may form on younger individuals, but they tend to become more prominent as you age since more melanin is produced.
Where Do They Develop?
Individuals that spend a lot of time in the sun may notice more age spots as they get older. Some parts of the body are more likely to have age spots, largely because some particular parts of your anatomy is more likely to be in the sunlight. The most common areas they develop are the backs of hands, shoulders, upper back, face, forearms, and the tops of feet.
When Should I Worry?
Sun and UV light exposure increase the risks of some types of skin cancer, such as melanoma, which can be very dangerous—even fatal. Additionally, the early stages of melanoma do tend to resemble age spots. This means that any time you notice new areas of discoloration, it’s probably a good idea to mention it to your doctor or dermatologist. If any discoloration you assumed to be an age spot begins to grow (particularly brown or black ones), definitely get it checked out. Early melanoma can be treated with surgery.
