Age spots
Key points
- Liver spots are flat brown-black spots that usually occur in sun-exposed areas of the body.
- Liver spots are changes in skin color associated with older skin.
- Signs and tests A diagnosis is based on the appearance of the skin, especially if the patient is over 40 and has had a lot of sun exposure over the years.
- The cosmetic appearance of your skin may be improved by the use of skin bleaching lotions or creams.
Alternative names
Sun-induced skin changes - liver spots; Senile lentigines; Lentigos; Skin spots - aging; Liver spots
Definition
Liver spots are flat brown-black spots that usually occur in sun-exposed areas of the body. They are also called age spots. They are unrelated to the liver or liver function.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Liver spots are changes in skin color associated with older skin. The increased pigmentation may be brought on by aging, exposure to sun or other forms of ultraviolet light, or other unknown causes.
Liver spots are extremely common after the age of 40. They occur most often on the backs of the hands, on the forearms, shoulder, face, and forehead, areas of highest sun exposure.
They are harmless and painless, but they may affect the cosmetic appearance. Occasionally, liver spots may obscure the diagnosis of skin cancers.
Symptoms
The main symptom is a skin lesion that is a painless, flat patch or macule (area of skin color change):
- Usual color: light brown to black
- Usual location: hands, arms, or forehead
Signs and tests
A diagnosis is based on the appearance of the skin, especially if the patient is over 40 and has had a lot of sun exposure over the years.
Treatment
No treatment is needed in most cases. The cosmetic appearance of your skin may be improved by the use of skin bleaching lotions or creams. Cryotherapy (freezing) or laser treatment may be recommended to destroy the liver spots.
Expectations (prognosis)
Liver spots are not medically dangerous. They are permanent skin changes that may affect cosmetic appearance.
Complications
A possible complication is emotional distress from the appearance of the liver spots.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if liver spots are present and removal is desired, or if any new symptoms develop, particularly changes in the appearance of any skin lesion.
Prevention
Protect your skin from the sun by taking the following precautions:
- Wear protective clothing such as hats, long-sleeved shirts, long skirts, or pants.
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.