Seeing spots? It is not uncommon for adults to develop hyperpigmentation on the skin that appears in the form of dark spots.

These are called liver spots, most commonly, but also go by age spots or sunspots. This hyperpigmentation concern can be treated and there are many different options patients can consider achieving their desired results. Skin rejuvenations are available at PryorHealth to help resurface skin or directly target excess pigmentation and even out your skin tone.

What Causes Age Spots?

In most cases, these hyperpigmentation spots that appear on the skin are caused by UV exposure from the sun or tanning bed. This reason is what coined the term sunspots. UV light stimulates melanin in the skin, and after years of exposure, patients can see clusters band together to cause dark spots in the skin.

Age can also play a role in the development of these; loss of collagen production and natural defenses against the sun and environmental stressors can lead to further imperfections developing. These are also known as liver spots, but this organ actually does not contribute to their appearance.

How Can I Treat Liver Spots?

If the appearance of hyperpigmentation spots like these are a cause of concern, rest assured, they can be treated. Liver spots on the skin can be reduced or eliminated. While some can appear in areas that are easy to ignore, other blemishes can appear in noticeably visible areas and distract from your overall appearance.

One of the easiest ways to hide the appearance of blemishes like sunspots in the skin is through makeup. However, this approach is temporary and can be difficult to perfect for some. Cosmetic rejuvenation and medical-grade skincare procedures can also treat, reduce, or eliminate liver spots. Prevention for age spots is also a great way to help maintain skin over time. The most important step is to be diligent about sun protection.

Whenever possible, avoid direct contact with the sun, especially when rays are at their strongest in the middle of the day. If you must go outside, even if you will be in a car or outside for a brief time, you should always wear protective clothing and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Not only can this help to reduce sun damage and hyperpigmentation in the skin, but it can also greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer.

What Do Liver Spots Look Like?

These hyperpigmentation spots often resemble freckles in shape and size. Liver spots can be light brown, dark brown, or black, and appear as oval-shaped spots on the skin. These markings are completely flat and painless, and most often appear on the face, shoulders, and forearms. In other words, areas of the body that experience the most sun exposure.

Freckles generally appear at birth or shortly after. Age spots develop at any time in life, which helps set them apart from natural markings. If you are concerned about a spot on the skin, or want to pursue liver spot treatment Rockford patients are encouraged to talk to their dermatologist.

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