Age Spots
Age spots, also called liver spots, solar lentigines, or senile lentigines, are small, flat, dark areas on the skin. They vary in size and usually appear on areas most exposed to the sun such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Age spots are flat, larger tan to brown patches caused by cumulative sun exposure and aging. They don’t fade in winter.Freckles are small, light-brown spots that appear and fade with sun exposure, they’re more common in fair skinned people and often lighten in winter. Moles are raised or flat clusters of pigment producing cells that can be present from birth or develop early in life. Unlike age spots, moles can sometimes become cancerous and should be monitored for changes in size, shape, or color.
No, age spots generally do not fade on their own because the excess melanin has become “stuck” in the skin’s upper layers. Unlike freckles, which may lighten with reduced sun exposure, age spots tend to persist unless treated. However, you can prevent new ones and keep existing ones from darkening by using daily sunscreen (SPF 30+), wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds.
Some can help lighten age spots over time, but results vary and are usually modest compared to prescription or professional treatments. Look for products containing Vitamin C, it helps brighten skin and inhibit melanin production, Niacinamide can reduce pigment transfer in skin cells, Alpha arbutin or kojic acid — mild skin-lightening agents, Retinol/retinaldehyde speeds up cell turnover to fade spots gradually for significant or stubborn age spots, dermatologist treatments like laser therapy, IPL, cryotherapy, or prescription hydroquinone are typically more effective. Always see a dermatologist first to confirm the spots are benign before starting any lightening treatment.
They Can Help You
The staff at Dermaleaf can help resolve skincare issues through a multi-layered approach that combines personalized consultation, science-backed formulations, and ongoing support tailored to each client’s unique skin biology and concerns..
