Sun Spots

What are Sun Spots?

Solar Lentigo, commonly known as sun spots, age spots, or liver spots (though they are unrelated to liver function), are flat, well-defined patches of darkened skin. These spots are caused by prolonged or cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. They are a common sign of photoaging and can persist or become more pronounced with age.

Symptoms

Appearance: Sun spots present as flat, round, oval, or irregularly shaped patches of darkened skin. The colour can range from light tan to dark brown or even black, and the spots may have a slightly scaly or rough texture.
Location: Typically found in groups, sun spots commonly appear on areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, shoulders, décolletage, forearms, hands, and the upper back.
Permanence: Unlike freckles, which may fade with reduced sun exposure, sun spots generally do not fade and can become more prominent over time.
No Associated Symptoms: Sun spots are benign and do not cause pain, itching, or other symptoms. They do not turn into skin cancer. However, monitoring the skin for any changes is important, as UV damage can increase the risk of skin cancer.
When to See a Doctor: If you notice a spot that is growing, changing shape, has irregular borders, or is itching or bleeding, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. These are not typical characteristics of sun spots and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Causes

Prolonged UV Exposure: The primary cause of solar lentigines is prolonged or repeated exposure to UV rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. UV radiation triggers an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour, as a protective response.
Natural Ageing: As skin ages, its ability to repair UV-induced damage decreases, making it more susceptible to the formation of sun spots.
Skin Type: While sun spots can affect all skin types, individuals with fair skin, who have less natural protection against UV rays, are more prone to developing these spots, especially after the age of 30.
Cumulative Damage: The risk of sun spots increases with cumulative sun exposure over the years, particularly if there is a history of sunburns or prolonged outdoor activities without adequate sun protection.