Are age spots a natural part of aging? Though many of us in our 20s and 30s would like to think so, the reality is age spots (a.k.a liver spots) don’t just mean you’re getting older: they’re also a sign that your skin is getting too much sun exposure.
As you head into the hottest part of summer, it’s important that you understand what causes age spots and how to treat them effectively, so you can stop worrying and start enjoying the skin you’re in.
What Are Age Spots?
Age spots are small, brownish spots (or freckles) that can appear on the back of your hands, shoulders, face, and other areas. When the sun’s ultraviolet radiation penetrates deep into the skin, your body produces more melanin, the pigment responsible for your skin’s color. This is why we tan or get sunburned in the summer. Over time, however, the excess melanin that’s produced forms together, resulting in the appearance of age spots (Medical News Today).
Though age spots develop over time, which is why most of us associate this type of skin damage with older age, age spots can appear as early as your 20s. Regardless of age, if you begin to notice discoloration on your face or arms, you’ll want to help protect your skin from further sun damage.
Are Age Spots Dangerous?
Age spots are not harmful to your skin, but some cancerous growths can mirror their appearance. It’s important to have your skin checked once a year by a dermatologist, especially if you notice age spots changing shape, color, or size.
How to Treat Age Spots
Age spots are not a life sentence. With the right skincare treatment plan, you can lighten or remove spots completely at any age. At Pinnacle Dermatology, we match our patients to the best cosmetic dermatology procedures and products for their individual skin types. Our services include:
Laser Therapy: to help remove the upper layers of skin, damaged by the sun, and allow healthy cell growth for a smoother complexion.
Medical-Grade Skin Care Products: to help brighten and smooth skin with prescription-strength ingredients that penetrate deep within the skin.
Microdermabrasion: to help remove dead skin cells through the gentle abrasive action of micro-crystals.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): to help remove excess pigmentation for an even tone.
At Pinnacle Dermatology, we believe everyone’s skin is unique and deserves its own personalized treatment plan to achieve its best health. To learn more about removing unnecessary age spots from your skin, contact us to schedule a free cosmetic consultation. From there, we’ll evaluate your skin health, discuss your concerns, and design a skincare regime that helps remove your age spots, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and treat other skin issues caused by sun damage.
As the summer heats up, make sure you’re protecting your skin from excessive UV rays and giving it the treatment it needs to look its best all summer long.