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Age Spots
What are Age Spots?
Age spots are flat, brown, black, or grey patches on the skin. They are benign (non-cancerous) pigmented spots that appear due to sun exposure and aging. They are most common in adults over 40 but can also appear earlier with high UV exposure.
What are the Causes of Age Spots?
- Chronic sun exposure → UV radiation stimulates excess melanin production.
- Tanning beds → accelerate pigmentation changes.
- Ageing skin → reduced ability to repair UV damage.
- Fair skin types (light-skinned individuals are more prone).
- Genetics → family tendency to develop pigmentation spots.
What are the Symptoms of Age Spots?
- Flat, oval spots of tan, brown, black, or grey colour.
- Appear on sun-exposed areas: face, hands, shoulders, arms, chest, back.
- Vary in size (a few mm to >1 cm).
- Painless and harmless, but may be a cosmetic concern.
- Unlike freckles, they don’t fade in winter.
What are the best Treatments for Age Spots?
Age spots are usually harmless so any treatment considered is usually for cosmetic reasons. However, it is important to rule out skin cancer so if you are concerned about an age spot, please do check with one of our medical team.
1. Topical Treatments
- Hydroquinone (skin-lightening cream).
- Retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) → increase cell turnover.
- Azelaic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C → brighten pigmentation.
2. Procedures (Dermatology/Aesthetic Clinic)
- Chemical peels (glycolic, salicylic, TCA).
- Laser therapy (Q-switched, fractional, IPL).
- Cryotherapy (liquid nitrogen) → freezes off pigmented cells.
- Microdermabrasion → removes outer skin layer for a more even tone.
3. At-home Support
- Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ to prevent further darkening.
- Consistent skincare routine with antioxidants (vitamin C, niacinamide).
How to prevent Age Spots?
Age spots may occur due to historical sun damage but taking the following steps can minimise or prevent further age spots forming.
- Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
- Wear protective clothing, hats, sunglasses.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Use skincare with antioxidants to combat sun damage.
- Regular skin checks to distinguish harmless age spots from skin cancers.
FAQs
Q1. Are age spots dangerous?
No, they’re harmless. However, new or changing dark spots should be checked by a dermatologist to rule out melanoma or skin cancer.
Q2. Can age spots go away on their own?
No, they usually don’t fade naturally, but treatments can lighten or remove them.
Q3. What’s the difference between freckles and age spots?
Freckles fade in winter, while age spots persist all year round.
Q4. Do only older people get them?
No, younger adults with heavy sun exposure or tanning bed use can also develop them.
Q5. What is the most effective treatment?
Laser therapy and medical-grade peels give the fastest, most noticeable results, but consistent sun protection is essential.
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