Liver spots, also known as "age spots" or "solar lentigenes," typically develop on the face, forehead, hands, forearms, and shoulders--generally the most sun-exposed parts of the body. The spots most commonly affect people over 40, although they can also appear on younger people as well. Liver spots are usually harmless, and are not at all related to liver function. They should not be confused with spots that could signal the presence of melanoma, a serious skin cancer.
Sun Exposure
Liver spots occur primarily from sun exposure, so regular use of sunscreen and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun are keys to their prevention, according to the National Institutes of Health. Liver spots typically appear gradually over time after years of exposure to the sun's rays. Liver spots are distinguished by flat, darkened areas of the skin that are usually black, gray, or brown in color, and may range from freckle-size to greater than 1 cm in diameter. These spots should be painless. Subjecting the skin to ultraviolet light speeds up the production of melanin, which is the dark skin pigment that body produces in extra amounts to protect the deeper layers of skin after unprotected sun exposure. The higher melanin concentration produces liver spots. Artificial tanning measures, such as tanning beds and lamps, can also produce these dark spots, according to the MayoClinic.com website.
Growing Older
Liver spots can show up simply because of the aging of a person's skin and the changes in color that time can bring. This is why liver spots are also known as age spots. According to MayoClinic.com, higher concentrations of melanin are produced in older skin, and it is the "clumps" of melanin that produce liver spots.
Genetics
Anyone can develop liver spots. However, certain people may be more likely to develop these darker patches simply because of their genetic profile. Also, fair skin or a history of sunburns or intense sun exposure can make someone more prone to liver spots.
Treatment
Because true liver spots do not cause harm, most people will not need treatment for them. Some people may choose to remove the spots for cosmetic reasons -- contact your health care provider about available treatments. MedHelp.org notes that over-the-counter creams and lotions may help fade liver spots, too. Also be wary of any changes in appearance to dark skin patches, as this could indicate a malignancy. Your health care provider should examine irregular-looking skin spots to rule out the presence of skin cancers, also caused by sun exposure.
Campbell de Morgan Spots
Another type of skin blemish normally found in people over 40, Campbell de Morgan spots appear as small red or purple patches on the trunk of the body. These benign spots are overgrowths of the skin's blood vessels, and no one is sure what causes them to surface. Like liver spots, Campbell de Morgan spots can be removed through treatments that seal off the blood vessels, according to BBC Health.
