Age Spot Prevention & Treatment For Summer

Are age spots a natural part of aging? Though many of us in our 20s and 30s would like to think so, the reality is age spots (a.k.a liver spots) don’t just mean you’re getting older: they’re also a sign that your skin is getting too much sun exposure. 

As you head into the hottest part of summer, it’s important that you understand what causes age spots and how to treat them effectively, so you can stop worrying and start enjoying the skin you’re in. 

Age spots are small, brownish spots (or freckles) that can appear on the back of your hands, shoulders, face, and other areas. When the sun’s ultraviolet radiation penetrates deep into the skin, your body produces more melanin, the pigment responsible for your skin’s color. This is why we tan or get sunburned in the summer. Over time, however, the excess melanin that’s produced forms together, resulting in the appearance of age spots (Medical News Today).

Though age spots develop over time, which is why most of us associate this type of skin damage with older age, age spots can appear as early as your 20s. Regardless of age, if you begin to notice discoloration on your face or arms, you’ll want to help protect your skin from further sun damage. 

Age spots are not harmful to your skin, but some cancerous growths can mirror their appearance. It’s important to have your skin checked once a year by a dermatologist, especially if you notice age spots changing shape, color, or size.

Age spots are not a life sentence. With the right skincare treatment plan, you can lighten or remove spots completely at any age. At Pinnacle Dermatology, we match our patients to the best cosmetic dermatology procedures and products for their individual skin types. Our services include: