How to Identify Sun Spots and Distinguish Them From Melanoma Using Pictures and Descriptions

Understanding Sun Spots and Other Skin Discolorations

As we age, dark spots and patches often appear on the skin, especially on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, shoulders and neck. These harmless pigmentation changes are commonly called sun spots, age spots, or liver spots.

While most skin discolorations are benign, it's important to monitor spots closely, since one type of dark lesion - melanoma - can be dangerous if left untreated. Learning to distinguish sun spots from concerning moles and melanoma can help you spot early warning signs.

What Causes Sun Spots?

cumulative exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun causes brownish sun spots on skin. UV exposure encourages melanocytes, cells that produce melanin pigment, to cluster together and create concentrated areas of coloration.

Liver spots get their name because they were once thought to be caused by liver problems. But sun exposure is the real culprit behind flat, tan, brown or black age spots.

Appearance of Sun Spots

Sun spots typically appear in fair skinned middle aged or older adults, but can show up at any age. They have a flat, oval or round shaped appearance a few millimeters to a centimeter wide in size.

Colors range from tan to deep brown or black. They often cluster together in large patches on areas like the forehead, face, chest, back of hands, forearms, shoulders and neck.

Preventing Sun Spots

To help deter sun spots from forming:

• Wear broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours outside
• Wear protective clothing like hats and long sleeves
• Seek shade between 10am-2pm when UV rays are strongest
• Don't use tanning beds, which emit UV radiation

Key Differences Between Sun Spots and Melanoma

Because sun spots and melanoma can both produce dark skin lesions, it's crucial to tell the difference between harmless pigmentation and potential skin cancer. Here are distinguishing characteristics:

Irregular Borders

Melanoma spots tend to have uneven, jagged borders. Sun spots have smoother, well-defined edges.

Color Variation

Melanoma lesions often have a mix of tan, brown and black hues. Sun spots look more uniform in color.

Size Increase

A melanoma spot that starts small and grows larger over weeks to months is concerning. Sun spots remain static.

Elevation

Melanomas can grow upward, forming raised bumps on the skin. Sun spots remain flat against the skin surface.

Itching and Pain

Melanomas sometimes itch, ooze or become painful. Sun spots are not painful or itchy.

Location

Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, including places not exposed to sun. Sun spots form only on frequently sun-exposed areas.

Distinguishing Between Sun Spots and Liver Spots

Sun spots and liver spots refer to essentially the same harmless, cosmetic skin discoloration. However, there are minor differences:

Causes

Both are triggered mainly by UV exposure. But some research suggests liver spots may also be loosely influenced by aging, genetics and hormone changes.

Locations

Sun spots appear strictly where sunlight consistently hits the skin. Liver spots can form anywhere, including non-sun exposed areas.

Appearance

Liver spots tend to look slightly more light brown in color rather than blackish. Sun spots can be tan, brown or black.

Prevalence

Liver spots are more common in those over 50. Sun spots can show up as early as the 20s in people with a lot of sun exposure.

When to See a Dermatologist About Skin Spots

Most sun spots and other skin discolorations are harmless. But it's wise to point out any new or changing moles or lesions to your dermatologist during annual skin checks, especially if you notice:

• Spots with uneven borders or varied colors
• Lesions larger than 6mm that are growing
• Spots that itch, ooze, crust or bleed
• Painful sores that don't heal
• Marks in unusual locations like palms, soles of feet or mucous membranes
• History of excessive sun exposure and blistering sunburns

Early detection is key for melanoma survival, so when in doubt, get spots examined.

Treatments to Remove or Lighten Sun Spots

Though harmless, people often choose to lighten or remove sun spots for cosmetic reasons. Several treatment options are available from dermatologists:

Cryosurgery

Liquid nitrogen is applied to age spots to freeze and destroy the excess melanin. Redness and swelling fade within a week.

Chemical Peels

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid are applied to gently peel the top skin layers, allowing new smoother skin to emerge.

Dermabrasion

A rotating wire brush abrades the skin's surface to remove discolored areas. Mild bleeding and scabbing occur before healing.

Laser Therapy

High intensity lasers break up excess melanin producing lighter spots. Multiple treatments spaced weeks apart provide best results.

Topical Bleaching Creams

Hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid and retinoids fade age spots over months by blocking melanin production in cells.

Sun Protection Is Key for Spot Prevention

While sun spots are harmless, prevention is ideal to maintain smooth, even toned skin. Thorough sun protection starting at a young age reduces cumulative UV damage that causes spotting and wrinkling.

Aside from vigilant sunscreen use, these tactics can help deter spots:

• Wear wide brimmed hats, long sleeves and UV blocking clothes when outside
• Seek shade under trees, umbrellas and canopies whenever possible
• Install UV blocking window film on car and home windows
• Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect eyes and skin around them
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak UV hours (10am-2pm)

Home Remedies Provide Minimal Improvement

You may come across home treatments like lemon juice, aloe vera, yogurt, buttermilk, onions or apple cider vinegar used to lighten liver spots. However, these provide minimal, if any, true benefit for pigmented sun spots.

When to Worry About Skin Spots - Signs of Melanoma

Monitor all moles and lesions closely for any signs of change over time. Use the ABCDE guidelines to look for common melanoma warning signs:

Asymmetry - One half doesn't match the other half
Borders - Uneven, irregular, jagged edges
Color - Varied shades of brown/black/tan
Diameter - Larger than 6mm or growing in size
Evolving - Changes in shape, color, elevation or symptoms

Also be vigilant for:

• New spots that appear suddenly in adulthood
• Marks that itch, ooze, crust or bleed
• Sores that don't heal properly
• Growths in unusual locations like palms, mouth or genitals
• Painful spots

Schedule a skin cancer screening if you have any concerns about new or changing marks on your skin.

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.