As people age, tan or dark spots or blemishes – commonly called age spots – can appear on the face and on the back of the hands. These spots are also called lentigines, lentigos, or liver spots. Age spots may develop at an early age, even in childhood, though they are more common in older people, especially in those who have spent too much time in the sun. They are not cancerous, nor do they lead to cancer. There are treatment options available to help to minimize the appearance of these spots.

• Sun Protection: Wearing a sunscreen on a daily basis is the most important part of any treatment regimen.

• Topical Prescriptions: Some people can see an improvement in age spots with topical medications. The two most widely prescribed topical treatments are hydroquinone (a prescription bleaching cream) or tretinoin (a prescription antiaging cream).

• Laser or Light Treatments:  An IPL Photofacial Treatment is our favorite treatment for age spots. It can be performed on the face, chest, and hands.

• Chemical Peels: Chemical peels improve the appearance of age spots by using a chemical solution to remove the outer layer of old skin. The new skin that replaces it is usually smoother and less wrinkled in appearance.

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