What Are Sun & Age Spots?

Sun and age spots are flat, brown, gray, or black spots that typically appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms. They are also known as liver spots or solar lentigines. These spots are generally harmless, but can affect the skin’s overall appearance. They are more common in older adults but can also occur in younger people with significant sun exposure. Treatment can help lighten or remove these spots for cosmetic reasons.

What Are The Causes Of Sun & Age Spots?

Sun and age spots develop due to prolonged and repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, accelerating melanin production in the skin. This overproduction of melanin causes these dark spots to form.
UV light stimulates melanocytes, which produce melanin, forming dark spots on exposed skin areas.
As the skin ages, it becomes less capable of regenerating and more prone to developing pigmented spots.
Similar to the sun, tanning beds expose the skin to UV radiation, increasing the risk of age spots.
Some individuals are genetically predisposed to develop age spots more easily.
Inflammation and healing from skin injuries can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, appearing as dark spots.