Age spots (also called liver spots) are flat, gray, brown or black spots. They vary in size and usually appear on the face, hands, shoulders and arms – areas most exposed to the sun. Though age spots are very common in adults older than age 40, they can affect younger people as well.

True age spots are harmless and don’t need treatment, but they can look like cancerous growths. For cosmetic reasons, age spots can be lightened with skin-bleaching products or removed. However, preventing age spots – by avoiding the sun and using sunscreen – may be the easiest way to maintain your skin’s youthful appearance.

Age spots typically develop in people with a fair complexion but can be seen even in those with darker skin. Age spots:

* Are flat, oval areas of increased pigmentation
* Are usually brown, black or grey
* Occur on skin that has had the most sun exposure over the years, such as the backs of hands, tops of feet, face, shoulders and upper back.

Age spots range from freckle-size to more than a centimeter across and can group together, making them more prominent.

When to see a doctor:
It’s best to have any new skin changes evaluated by a doctor, especially if a spot or lesion:

* Is darkly pigmented
* Is rapidly increasing in size
* Has an irregular border
* Has an unusual combination of colors

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