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Age Spots | Sun Spots

Written by Skin Renewal Medical Advisory Board

Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are dark skin patches primarily caused by sun exposure and ageing. These spots commonly appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, arms, shoulders, and back. Preventive measures such as using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing can help minimise their formation. For those already experiencing age spots, effective treatments like KTP Laser, chemical peels, and pulsed lights such as Limelight and Acutip are available to improve skin appearance and texture, promoting a healthier and more youthful complexion.

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What Are Age Spots / Sun Spots?

Age spots, also known as liver spots, sun spots, or solar lentigines, are common skin conditions associated with ageing. These dark spots are primarily caused by prolonged sun exposure and can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, hands, arms, shoulders, and back. Genetic predisposition also plays a role in their development.

Causes of Age Spots / Sun Spots

While genetic factors can influence the likelihood of developing age spots, the primary cause is sun damage. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation accelerates skin ageing, leading to the formation of pigmented spots. Signs of cutaneous ageing, such as age spots, can become noticeable as early as the twenties, especially with excessive sun exposure. Due to photoaging, the prevalence of these spots significantly increases between the ages of 35 and 49.

Preventing Age Spots / Sun Spots

Preventative measures are crucial in minimising the risk of developing age spots. These include:

Sun Protection: Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF can protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
Avoiding Peak Sun Hours: Limiting sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV radiation is most potent.
Protective Clothing: Wear hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses to shield the skin from direct sunlight.

Special Considerations for Dark Skin Types

Dark skin types are more prone to hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and dark patches caused by hormonal fluctuations. UV exposure exacerbates these conditions, making sun protection even more critical.

Spot the Difference: Freckles, Sun Spots, and Age Spots

Understanding the differences between various types of skin pigmentation is essential for effective treatment:

Freckles: Small, flat, brown spots caused by genetic factors and sun exposure, which often fade without sun exposure.
Sunspots: These are flat, brown spots that develop due to prolonged sun exposure and appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun.
Age Spots: Similar to sunspots, age spots occur as a natural part of ageing and appear as flat, brown, or black spots in sun-exposed areas over time.

Treatment Options for Age Spots

If you already have age spots, several effective treatments are available to reduce their appearance and improve overall skin tone and texture. Here are some of the most popular treatments:

Treatment Option	Description
KTP Laser with HandPICO Laser	Ideal for skin types 1-3, providing a customised treatment experience for lighter skin tones with safe and optimal results.
PicoFractional & PicoFractional Intense	Gentle yet effective on different skin tones, ensuring reliable results with minimal risk, even on sensitive skin.
Limelight™ IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) / Acutip™	Targets pigmented spots, reducing their appearance and promoting even skin tone.
Laser Genesis™	Stimulates collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing pigmentation.
Fractional Skin Resurfacing	Includes procedures like Endymed FSR, Pearl Fractional, and CO2 Fractional Laser, effectively treating age spots by removing damaged skin layers.
Chemical Peels	Exfoliates the skin, reducing the appearance of pigmented spots and promoting a brighter complexion.
Mesotherapy and Transdermal Mesotherapy	Delivers skin-brightening agents directly to the affected areas, reducing pigmentation.
Skin Needling with Dermapen	Micro-needling promotes skin regeneration, helping diminish age spots and improve skin texture.
RF Needling with Endymed Intensif or Secret RF	Combines radiofrequency energy with micro-needling to address pigmentation and enhance skin texture.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)	Combined with skin-brightening and pigmentation actives, targets and reduces age spots.
Laser Vein Removal	Addresses fine dilated capillaries ("broken vessels"), improving overall skin appearance.

frequently asked
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Are age spot and sun spot treatments available at all Skin Renewal clinics?

Age spot and sun spot treatments are available in Gauteng at the Morningside, Parkhurst, Rosebank, Bedfordview, Fourways, West Rand, Irene, Lynnwood and Brooklyn clinics, as well as in the Western Cape at Cape Quarter, Claremont, Constantia, Century City, Stellenbosch, Paarl and Willowbridge clinics, and Kwa-Zulu Natal at the Ballito, Durban and Umhlanga clinics.

What are age spots?

Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are flat, dark patches that appear on the skin due to prolonged sun exposure and the natural ageing process. They are commonly found in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, shoulders, and back.

Are age spots harmful?

Age spots are generally harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, it is essential to monitor any changes in their appearance and consult a dermatologist if they become irregular in shape, change colour, or increase in size, as these could be signs of skin cancer.

How can I prevent age spots?

Preventing age spots involves protecting your skin from sun damage. This includes using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun exposure hours between 10am and 4pm. Regular skin care and sun protection early on can help minimise the risk.

Are certain skin types more prone to age spots?

Yes, fair-skinned individuals are generally more prone to age spots due to their higher sensitivity to sun exposure. However, darker skin types can also develop age spots and may experience additional issues like hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, making sun protection crucial for all skin types.

Is there a specific age when age spots start appearing?

Age spots can appear as early as the twenties, especially in individuals with significant sun exposure. However, they are more commonly seen in people over the age of 50. The likelihood and severity of age spots increase with age and cumulative sun exposure.

How long does it take to see results from age spot treatments?

The time it takes to see results varies depending on the treatment method and the individual's skin type. Some treatments, such as chemical peels and laser therapy, may show noticeable improvements within a few weeks, while others, like microneedling, might take several sessions to achieve optimal results.

Frequently asked questions

Are age spot and sun spot treatments available at all Skin Renewal clinics?

What are age spots?

Are age spots harmful?

How can I prevent age spots?

Are certain skin types more prone to age spots?

Is there a specific age when age spots start appearing?

How long does it take to see results from age spot treatments?

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Reviewed on 5 April 2016 by Sharon Reuben

Skin Renewal West Rand | Beauty Treatments

Excellent therapist, thank you Sharon I will definitely be back. I appreciate all the advice given you have been a great help .

Reviewed on 5 April 2016 by Madelie Samuels

Skin Renewal West Rand | Nutrition for Skin

Amazing! Amazing! Loved every second, very unique treatments that divides the ordinary to extordinary!

Reviewed on 5 April 2016 by Leigh Chalmes

Skin Renewal West Rand | Beauty Treatments

Thank you, I had an awesome treatment and found a jem in Sharon. Who was very professional and helped tremendously. GREAT!

Reviewed on 4 April 2016 by Leanne Mc Naught

Skin Renewal Claremont | Beauty Treatments

Very accommodating and attentive. I thoroughly enjoyed my treatment with Liza and i'd most certainly ask for again. Liza is also knowledgeable about the Skin and the various products.

Reviewed on 3 September 2014 by Elsabe Murnsh

Skin Renewal Irene | Laser Genesis™ Rejuvenation

Ilona is fanatasic and very helpful. My whole experience is overall brilliant! every time!

To Tammy and Skin Renewal. Thank you for your fabulous and outstanding personal care. Tammy your peels & laser treatments are outstanding, Many thanks!