What are age spots?

Age spots, also known as lentigo solaris, liver spots or sun spots, are benign pigmentary abnormalities in the skin. They usually appear after age 40 and are common on the face, hands and other sun-exposed areas. Although age spots do not cause harm, they are sometimes cosmetically distracting. At Ivy clinics, we understand that. Fortunately, these spots are often easily treatable.

By the way, the name liver spots came about because the spots were once thought to have something to do with liver disease or liver function, but that has never been proven.

Causes of age spots

Anyone can get age spots, but the extent varies from person to person. Contributing factors are:

• Skin aging – increase in pigment accumulation as the skin ages.
• UV radiation – unprotected sun exposure is the main culprit.
• Hereditary predisposition – some people are more susceptible to pigmentation.
• Skin type – lighter skin types are more likely to have age spots.
• Medication – certain medications such as antibiotics, antimalarial drugs, amiodarone (a heart medication), some cytostatics and psychopharmaceuticals (such as phenothiazines) are known to have hyperpigmentation as a possible side effect.

Characteristics of age spots

• Brown to dark brown spots on the skin.
• Often sharply defined, but sometimes blending into each other.
• Appear mainly on sun-exposed skin such as face and hands.
• Often occurs in combination with other forms of hyperpigmentation.

Preventing age spots

You cannot completely prevent age spots, but you can reduce the risk by properly protecting your skin:

• Limit exposure to direct sunlight, especially in the middle of the day.
• Use a day cream or sunscreen with high SPF daily.
• Wear protective clothing, hats or gloves during intense sun.

Remove age spots

Are age spots already appearing? At Ivy clinics, we offer several safe and effective treatments to reduce or remove the spots:

• Laser treatments – With the Magma laser/SparkPro laser for targeted pigment correction.
• Chemical peels – such as the MeLine protocol, for an even complexion.
• Cosmeceuticals for home use – including AlumierMD, emerginC and MeLine.

Free consultation

Want to know which age spots treatment will give you the best results? Then make an appointment at Ivy clinics for a free, no-obligation consultation with our skin therapist. Together we will draw up a treatment plan for more even, fresh skin.