Many people develop age spots. Though the skim blemishes are often thought of as an unavoidable side effect of old age, they can be prevented and treated. Learn more about how age spots form and the skin care solutions available.

What Are Age Spots?

Age spots are also known as liver or sun spots. They’re often brown, gray, or black. They appear when the melanin, the pigment in your skin, bunches together in high concentrations. People with light-colored skin more often develop these spots, with women age 50 and older being the most susceptible. The spots are typically harmless, although you should always have a dermatologist check them for skin cancer.

The most common cause of age spots is sun exposure. As the skin weakens with age, it becomes more vulnerable to this side effect. Areas that receive the most sun exposure, like the face, shoulders, upper back and neck, forearms, and the backs of hands, are the most likely to develop spots.

Treatments

Since age spots don’t pose a risk to your health, they don’t require medical treatment. However, you may want to address them for cosmetic reasons. Prescription medications and bleaching creams can help fade age spots, though this can take time, and the results vary for each person. Professional skin care remedies like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatment are proven to be effective at lightening blemishes as well.

Prevention

Preventing age spots involves being mindful about sun exposure. Always wear a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher when going outdoors for extended periods, and reapply it every hour. Also, cover up areas of your skin prone to age spots and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face. When possible, avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when rays are most intense.

If you’re interested in exploring solutions to age spots, David K. Hiranaka, MD, DMD, of Kailua-Kona, HI, is here to assist. Voted the Best of West Hawaii 2018 for facial and body treatments, he’s served the community for over 25 years. He and his team provide a variety of skin care and cosmetic surgery options, including facials, Botox®, and body sculpting. Learn more about his offerings online. Call (808) 326-2040 to schedule a skin care consultation, and connect on Facebook for news and specials.