Brown Spots / Age Spots

Age spots, also known as liver spots and solar lentigines, are flat tan, brown or black spots.  They vary in size and usually appear on the face, hands, shoulders, and arms – areas most exposed to the sun.  Age spots are very common in adults over the age 50; however, younger people can get them too, especially if they spend a lot of time in the sun without sunscreen.  Age spots occur when the top surface layer of the skin has increased pigment deposition and develops what can look like a large freckle.  One may appear by itself, or a few may be clustered together.  Brown spots and age spots can resemble potentially harmful growths, such as precancerous scaly, red elevations called actinic keratosis. Dark spots, which may be cancerous, may also appear to be lentigines.  It is important to have any spot on your skin that is new be properly evaluated by a professional.

TREATMENT

True age spots don’t require treatment.  For cosmetic purposes, age spots can be lightened with skin-bleaching products or removed.  Prevent age spots by avoiding the sun and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.

To ensure your age spots are harmless and maintain your skin’s youthful appearance, call  402-467-4361. for an appointment.