Have you noticed a new brown spot on your face, hands, or shoulders and wondered whether it is an age spot? Despite their name, these common areas of pigmentation are not caused by age alone. They develop gradually after repeated exposure to ultraviolet light, so they can appear earlier than many people expect.
At Essex MedSpa, the experienced team provides personalized aesthetic care using advanced treatments tailored to your skin and beauty goals. Medical Director Dr. Jill Sohayda is a double board-certified physician with advanced training in laser skincare and other aesthetic treatments, combining modern technology with attentive patient education.
The Typical Age for Developing Age Spots
Age spots most commonly become noticeable in adults over age 50. However, younger adults can also develop them, particularly when they have accumulated significant sun exposure or frequently used tanning beds.
These flat areas of pigmentation, also called sunspots or solar lentigines, often develop on skin that receives the most sunlight. Common locations include the:
- Face
- Backs of the hands
- Shoulders
- Arms
- Upper chest
Age spots may be tan, brown, or dark brown and can range from freckle-sized marks to larger patches.
Factors That Can Cause Earlier Age Spots
The age at which age spots appear varies because everyone has a different history of ultraviolet exposure. People who spend considerable time outdoors without adequate sun protection may notice spots in their 30s or 40s. Fair skin, frequent sunburns, and indoor tanning can also increase the likelihood of developing them earlier.
Genetics may influence how your skin responds to sunlight, but age spots primarily reflect accumulated UV damage. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can help prevent new spots and keep existing discoloration from becoming darker.
Knowing When to Have a Spot Examined
Age spots are usually harmless, but not every brown mark is an age spot. Have a medical professional evaluate a spot that changes in size, shape, or color; develops an irregular border; bleeds; or looks noticeably different from your other spots. A proper evaluation should be completed before pursuing cosmetic removal.
Reveal Clearer-Looking Skin With Age Spot Treatment in Littleton, CO
You do not have to wait for sun-related discoloration to become more noticeable. Essex MedSpa can assess your skin and recommend a personalized approach for improving unwanted pigmentation while supporting a smoother, more even-looking complexion. Call 303-973-3683 to schedule a consultation for age spot treatment in Littleton, CO.