Age spots are unaesthetic marks that can present themselves anywhere on the skin of the body or face. Age-related skin marks are also commonly known as liver spots or sun spots by laymen. Meanwhile, lentigo is the proper singular medical nomenclature, and senile lentigine is the accepted plural terminology embraced by doctors.
Senile lentigines occur from exposure to the damaging UV rays of the sun, especially as people get older and have less natural defense against the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Sun spots generally begin to occur after the age of 40, but can occur younger and are likely to occur more frequently with the passage of time.
This topical essay examines the formation and treatment of a wide range of unaesthetic skin markings that are associated with aging and unprotected ultraviolet radiation exposure.
Age Spots Explained
Liver spots have nothing at all to do with the liver, except in name alone. They are pigmented patches of skin which occur from exposure to UV radiation. Sun spots most often occur on the face, hands, shoulders, top of the head, neck and feet, as well as any other areas of the anatomy which are likely to suffer increased exposure to the sun. Of course, people who spend abundant time outdoors are more likely to get these unaesthetic skin blemishes. This is particularly true if they do not wear protective clothing or utilize approved high SPF sunscreen on exposed skin.
While most sun spots are harmless, the majority of affected people do not like the way they make the skin appear. While problematic physical effects are almost unheard of, negative emotional effects are commonplace and include a general lack of confidence and the desire to keep the skin spot location concealed.
In some cases, liver spots may prevent accurate detection of skin cancers. In this regard, they can cause big problems for some unfortunate individuals.
Removal of Liver Spots
Age spot removal is a big business in the aesthetic industry. There are many methods of treating sun spots effectively and nonsurgically.
While no singular approach is ideal for every patient, most professionally applied treatments are equally effective, when used as indicated.
Some of the most popular medical therapy modalities that are used to eliminate liver marks on the face and body include: laser skin treatments, chemical peels, cryosurgery, IPL therapy (intense pulsed light), and various bleaching creams and topical therapies.
Always be sure to seek qualified care when considering sun spot removal, since untrained or inadequately trained providers may permanently damage sensitive skin tissues.
Also, be warned that there are many home-use topical products that are available on the market. While most are not harmful, a few might be dangerous. However, most are ineffective or at least far less effectual than professionally applied treatments. Therefore, there is always the risk of suffering significant financial loss from purchasing a disappointing and overpriced product.
Age Spot Experiences
Age spots come in so many individual expressions. Some people get hundreds or even thousands of tiny freckle-like spots on particular areas of their bodies. Other people get large blotchy marks which may exist alone or in groups.
Regardless, most affected people do not like the look of the spots, nor the constant reminder of the passage of time upon them.
Removing sun spots is easy and generally incredibly successful. Always talk to your dermatologist or plastic surgeon about the best methods of eliminating your particular liver spot condition.
Also, be prepared to make some significant lifestyle changes, since liver spots can always grow back if you continue to expose your body to the sun without care. Make sure to minimize risks of recurrence by using high quality sunscreen and covering exposed areas with opaque clothing, whenever possible.
