Age Spots (Liver Spots)

Many people notice dark, flat spots appearing on their skin as they age, often mistaking them for severe skin conditions. These spots, commonly known as age spots or liver spots, affect millions worldwide. This comprehensive guide explores age spots, from their causes and symptoms to various treatment options.

What are Age Spots (Liver spots)?

Age spots (solar lentigines) are flat, darkened patches that develop on the skin due to excess melanin production. These common skin changes have nothing to do with liver function despite being commonly called liver spots.

These skin marks typically appear as flat, oval areas with well-defined edges. They can range from as small as a freckle to approximately 1/2 inch (13 millimetres) across. The spots usually show up in areas that receive the most sun exposure, including:

• Face and forehead
• Backs of hands
• Shoulders and upper back
• Forearms
• Tops of feet

Symptoms of Age Spots

The distinctive characteristics of age or liver spots on the skin make them easily identifiable. These spots present specific visual and textural features that help distinguish them from other skin conditions.

The appearance of these spots follows certain patterns. They typically have the following characteristics:

• Shape and Definition: Round or oval with clearly defined edges
• Texture: Flat and painless, matching the surrounding skin
• Colour Range: Light brown to dark brown or black
• Distribution: Often appear in groups, similar to clustered freckles
• Location: Commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, neck, and arms

Causes and Risk Factors  of Age Spots

When facing sun exposure, it triggers melanin synthesis, the pigment responsible for skin colour. Over time, this melanin can cluster in certain areas, forming what we recognise as age spots or liver spots.

The risk of developing age spots increases with certain factors:

• Fair Skin: People with lighter skin tones are more susceptible
• Advanced Age: The likelihood rises after age 50
• Frequent Sun Exposure: Regular outdoor activities without protection
• History of Sunburns: Past sun damage increases risk
• Use of Tanning Beds: Artificial UV exposure accelerates spot formation
• Genetic Predisposition: Family history can play an elementary role

Diagnosis

During a visual inspection, doctors evaluate several characteristics of the spots, including their size, shape, and border definition. They pay particular attention to spots that appear irregular or unusual, which might require further investigation.

Doctors may recommend a skin biopsy if there's any uncertainty about the nature of the spots. This procedure involves:

• Removing a small skin sample under local anaesthetic
• Sending the sample to a laboratory for detailed analysis
• Examining the tissue under a microscope
• Ruling out other conditions, including skin cancer
• Confirming the diagnosis definitively

Treatment for Age Spots

Medical professionals typically recommend two main categories of liver spot treatments:

• Topical Treatments
  • Prescription bleaching creams with hydroquinone
  • Over-the-counter lotions and gels for liver spots on the face
  • Retinoids 
  • Corticosteroids
• Professional Procedures
  • Laser therapy and intense pulsed light for age spots on the face
  • Cryotherapy (freezing)
  • Chemical peels for liver patches on the face
  • Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion

When to See a Doctor

Doctors recommend scheduling appointments when age spots show specific changes or concerning characteristics. These warning signs include:

• Spots that begin bleeding
• Changes in colour, significantly darkening or turning black
• Development of irregular borders
• Sudden growth or increase in size
• Unusual combinations of colours

Prevention

Protecting skin from harmful UV rays is the cornerstone of preventing age spots.

Essential Prevention Strategies:

• Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily
• Reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating
• Wearing protective clothing with UPF 40-50 rating
• Using wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses
• Seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Mineral-based sunblocks containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide offer superior skin and environmental protection. For those who spend considerable time driving, applying UV-protective coating to car windows can provide additional protection against age spots.

Conclusion

Age spots represent a common part of ageing that affects many people, particularly those with frequent sun exposure. While these spots don't pose health risks, understanding their nature helps people make informed decisions about treatment and prevention.

Protection against UV radiation remains the most effective strategy for preventing new age spots and managing existing ones. Regular skin checks and proper sun protection methods like sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade create a strong defence against their formation.

FAQs

1. What do liver spots look like?

Liver spots appear as flat, dark patches on the skin, ranging from light brown to black. They vary from about a tenth of an inch to half an inch across. These spots typically group like patches of freckles and maintain smooth, well-defined edges.

2. How do you get rid of liver spots naturally?

Several kitchen ingredients can help fade age spots naturally. The most effective home remedies include:

• Lemon juice (rich in vitamin C & citric acid)
• Potato slices (contains starch and vitamins)
• Aloe vera gel (apply for 30 minutes twice daily)
• Buttermilk (contains natural lactic acid)
• Cucumber slices (help with hyperpigmentation)

3. What foods prevent liver spots?

A diet rich in antioxidants can prevent & reduce skin darkening. The most beneficial foods include:

• Citrus fruits
• Sweet potatoes
• Fatty fish (rich in zinc)
• Berries
• Pumpkin
• Legumes

4. What vitamin stops liver spots?

Vitamin C is crucial in inhibiting melanin formation while promoting collagen production. Additionally, Vitamin B12 supports new skin cell growth, and Vitamin E helps treat scarring. Dietary intake and topical application of these vitamins are recommended for optimal results.

5. What is the root cause of liver spots?

The primary cause of liver spots is overactive pigment cells triggered by UV exposure. When skin receives prolonged sun exposure, melanin production increases and becomes concentrated in certain areas. This process accelerates with age and is more common in people with fair skin or frequent sun exposure.

Dr. Shradhha Mahalle

CARE Medical Team