Age Spots

Age spots (lentigines solares) are harmless, mostly flat pigmented lesions. They result from years of UV exposure and occur more frequently in later life. Preferred sites include the face, hands, and décolletage — areas of skin that are more extensively exposed to the sun. Their brownish colouration is due to locally increased melanin production. If they are cosmetically bothersome, laser treatment, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), or — in the early stages of development — brightening active ingredients such as retinoids and vitamin C may be treatment options. Consistent sun protection can reduce the formation of new spots.