Sunspots on Skin - Causes, Pictures, Treatment Options

Understanding Sunspots and Sun Damage on Skin

As we age, sunspots and other signs of sun damage often begin to appear on our skin. These flat, brown spots are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun and can pop up on areas like the face, hands, arms, and chest - places with frequent sun exposure.

While sunspots themselves are harmless, they do indicate UV damage has occurred in the deeper layers of the skin. This sun damage can lead to more serious concerns like skin cancer. That's why it's so important to protect yourself from sun exposure and catch any suspicious spots on your skin early.

What Are Sunspots?

Sunspots, also called solar lentigines or liver spots, are flat, brown or black areas that can appear on sun-exposed skin. They range in size from freckle-size to more than 1 inch wide. Sunspots are very common, especially among adults and seniors over 50.

These dark spots are caused by years of exposure to UV radiation, which damages the skin's pigment-producing cells. The areas with more sun damage produce extra pigment in response, which shows up as discolored patches.

Sunspot Causes and Risk Factors

A number of factors can increase your risk of developing sunspots and related UV damage:

• Sun exposure: Areas of skin that get the most sun exposure are more likely to develop sunspots. They frequently occur on the face, ears, bald scalp, shoulders, hands, and arms.
• Aging: Sun damage accumulates over time. Older individuals who have had years of sun exposure are at highest risk.
• Fair skin: Those with lighter natural skin tones have less melanin pigment to help protect against UV radiation.
• Gender: Women may develop more sunspots than men, possibly due to differences in skin thickness and estrogen levels.
• Genetics: Your hereditary traits can make you more prone to sunspots.
• Geographic location: People in areas that get more year-round sun have increased exposure.
• Smoking: Smoking is thought to contribute to sunspot development.
• Skin damage: Those with skin disorders like melisma are at increased risk.

Signs of Sunspots on Skin

When checking your skin, look for these common sunspot characteristics:

• Flat shape - sunspots are flat against the skin, not raised or bumpy.
• Distinct edges - they have clear boundaries and do not spread.
• Various sizes - can be tiny like a freckle or over an inch wide.
• Dark color - tan, brown or black.
• Dry texture - not oily, itchy or scaly.
• Appear in sun-exposed areas - face, ears, arms, etc.
• Increase with age.
• Can group together in large patches.

Sunspots vs. Age Spots vs. Liver Spots

Sunspots go by several similar names, but they all refer to the same condition. Here are a few alternate terms you may hear:

• Age spots: This name refers to the fact sunspots often show up as we get older.
• Liver spots: An old term that's still sometimes used. It's a myth they are related to your liver health.
• Solar lentigines: The medical name for sunspots.

No matter what you call them, these flat, pigmented patches on your skin stem from UV light exposure and sun damage.

Sunspots vs. Melanoma Skin Cancer

Although sunspots themselves are harmless, they are a warning sign your skin has had too much sun exposure. This sun damage can lead to premature wrinkles, age spots, and in serious cases, skin cancer like melanoma.

It's very important to monitor your skin and watch for any new or changing spots. Look out for spots that have any characteristics of melanoma, like asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, large size, and rapid growth. If you notice any concerning changes, see a dermatologist promptly.

Signs of Melanoma to Watch For

Check your skin regularly for unusual moles or spots that have any of these traits:

• Asymmetry - One half doesn't match the other half.
• Irregular borders - Ragged, uneven edges.
• Color variation - More than one color present.
• Large diameter - Larger than about 1/4 inch or 6 millimeters.
• Evolving - Changes in size, shape, symptoms.
• New spot - A new mole or mark that wasn't there before.

Comparing Benign Sunspots to Melanoma

Sunspots and early melanoma can look similar at first glance. Here are some ways to tell the difference:

• Sunspots
  • Flat and flush with the skin.
  • Round or oval with a distinct edge.
  • Tan to dark brown color that's uniform.
  • Usually appear in middle age or later.
  • Develop slowly over years.
  • Not a health concern on their own.
• Melanoma
  • May be raised or have an uneven surface.
  • Irregular shape with ragged borders.
  • Varied colors like black, blue, red, or white.
  • Can occur at any age, but more common in youth.
  • Tend to change more rapidly.
  • Can spread and be life-threatening if not treated early.

When in doubt, it's always best to point out any suspicious spots to your doctor. Catching melanoma early makes treatment very effective.

Preventing Sunspots and Sun Damage

While some sun exposure is healthy, too much UV radiation can lead to sunspots, wrinkles, and skin cancer over time. Protect yourself by:

• Using sunscreen - Apply broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen whenever you'll be outdoors, even on cloudy days.
• Wearing sun-protective clothing - Cover up with wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, tightly-woven fabrics, and other cover-ups.
• Avoiding the midday sun - Seek shade between 10am and 4pm when UV rays are strongest.
• Being extra careful near water, snow, or sand - These surfaces can reflect up to 85% more damaging sunlight onto your skin.
• Avoiding tanning beds - Tanning lamps emit concentrated UV light that rapidly damages skin.
• Getting annual skin checks - A dermatologist can monitor spots and check for signs of skin cancer.

Daily Sun Protection Habits

Making sun safety part of your everyday routine is key. Be vigilant about:

• Applying sunscreen to any exposed skin first thing in the morning.
• Reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours you are outside.
• Grabbing sunglasses, a hat, and cover-up clothes before going out.
• Staying in the shade whenever possible around mid-day.
• Checking your skin monthly for any new or changing moles or spots.

Treating and Removing Sunspots

Although sunspots themselves are harmless, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons or to prevent further UV skin damage. Options include:

Sunscreen and Sun Protection

Further sun protection can help prevent existing sunspots from getting darker and new ones from forming:

• Sunscreen - Use SPF 30+ sunscreen religiously every day.
• Sun protective clothes and hats - Cover up skin to block UV exposure.
• Avoid sun exposure - Limit time in midday sun.

Skin Lightening Creams

Over-the-counter creams with ingredients like hydroquinone, glycolic acid, licorice extract, and vitamin C can help fade sunspot discoloration gradually over time with daily use.

Chemical Peels and Laser Treatments

In-office procedures like chemical peels, intense pulsed light (IPL), and laser treatments can remove sunspots more quickly than creams. Several sessions are usually needed for best results.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses extreme cold (liquid nitrogen) applied directly to sunspots to destroy the extra pigment. The spots blister and peel off within about a week.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion removes surface skin using a rapidly rotating tool. As the treated area heals, new smoother skin grows in its place. Redness can last several months.

Microdermabrasion

This gentler resurfacing treatment uses tiny crystals sprayed on the skin to gently "sand" away sunspots. Minimal downtime is required and multiple treatments may be needed.

When to See a Doctor

Most sunspots are harmless, but it's important to monitor your skin for any unusual moles or marks that could signal skin cancer. See a dermatologist promptly if you notice any spots that:

• Appear suddenly or are new.
• Change in size, shape or color.
• Look uneven, ragged or irregular.
• Itch, ooze or bleed.
• Have an unusual sensation like burning or tingling.

A doctor can examine your skin and distinguish between benign sunspots and more concerning skin cancers like melanoma. Early detection and treatment are key to better outcomes.

The Takeaway

Sunspots are common, harmless signs of skin aging from sun exposure. While the spots themselves are not dangerous, they do indicate UV damage has occurred, which can lead to wrinkles, age spots and in severe cases, skin cancer.

It's crucial to monitor your skin closely, follow sun safety practices daily, and get an annual skin check by a dermatologist. This allows early detection and treatment of any concerning spots that could potentially be skin cancer.

While sunspots can't be prevented completely, you can reduce your risk by limiting UV exposure through sunscreen, protective clothing, avoidance of tanning, and skin self-checks. If you notice suspicious spots or changes, see your doctor promptly for evaluation and proper treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.