Age spot is the common name for a lentigine and can look similar to large freckles.
What is an age spot?
This is a brownish area of skin discolouration, generally on the face, arms and legs. They are flat or slightly raised pigmented lesion with a clearly defined edge.
What causes age spots
Commonly caused by:
- sun damage including sunburn
- Indoor tanning
- phototherapy, escpecially photochemotherapy (PUVA)
Treatment & Prevention
Most sun spots can be prevented by regular, liberal use of sunscreen to all exposed skin. Most age spots are left alone. Sun spots can be treated or lightened by laser or by careful use of skin bleaching preparations. Both of these treatments can damage the skin so must be used carefully as advised by your pharmacist, doctor or dermatologist.
The following approaches are used:
- SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen
- Hydroquinone
- Alpha hydroxy acids
- Vitamin C
- Retinoids
- Azaleic Acid
Remember you can prevent the sun from damaging your skin by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, sunglasses and a hat and avoiding unnecessary exposure to the sun, especially between 10am and 3pm.
Our pharmacists and staff can provide you with advice on managing and preventing sun spots and other skin marks and lesions. If you further diagnosis and treatment is required, we can refer you to the appropriate health professional to manage your condition.