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Age spots are also known as sun spots, liver spots, or solar lentigines. They are small, flat, round spots on the skin that begin to appear later in life on sun-exposed areas. They are particularly common on the face, neck, arms and backs of the hands, usually sparing the knuckles.

Age spots are thought to be caused by years of sunlight exposure. The sun damages the pigment-producing cells in the skin (melanocytes), causing them to over-produce pigment in sun-exposed areas. The age spots may increase in size over time and sometimes join together to create larger spots. They may also resemble freckles, but are typically darker and have a more consistent color throughout.

Age Spot Removal and Treatment

Age spots are benign, meaning they do not cause any harm. However, some people seek treatment because they dislike the appearance of them. There are several possible treatments for age spots. If you wish to remove a single age spot, our Board-Certified Dermatologist may recommend a procedure that can be performed quickly in the office. 

Additionally, medical bleaching agents such as hydroquinone can be applied to the skin to make age spots fade. Although these will not remove the lesion completely, they can make it less visible. Our doctors will recommend a treatment that is best suited to your specific medical needs and personal choices. Be sure to let our team if your lesions return after your age spot treatment.

You can schedule an appointment in our Boise location to get examined or discuss your age spots.