Age spots, also known as liver spots, can be an unsightly sign of the hands of time. Years of exposing your skin to the sun's harmful UV rays for the youthful appearance of a sun-kissed skin begins to pay its price. These spots become apparent around your eyes, other areas of the face and the back of your hands.
Causes
The sun's UV rays cause an increase in melanin production, which is the darker pigment of your skin that is responsible for your bronzed skin color when you have a tan. Over time, the melanin starts being produced in high concentrations and clusters to form visible spots on your skin. Other causes of age spots around your eyes are the natural process of aging and genetics.
Identification
Age spots around the eyes and other areas of your body look like large freckles. These freckles are flat patches of skin that are brown, black or gray. Age spots can be found as a cluster or individually, notes the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Because age spots are associated with photoaging, the process of your skin aging prematurely due to UV rays, age spots are often accompanied by fine lines and wrinkles.
Diagnosis
Whenever you notice a new dark spot or spots on your skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist or family physician. In most cases these spots are harmless, but they could also signify skin cancer. Your doctor will examine your skin and may ask you a series of questions about your sun exposure habits and your family history. If your doctor is unable to determine if the darkened area is a harmless age spot or something serious, a skin biopsy will be done in the doctor's office.
Treatment
A skin lightener, also referred to as skin bleaching, can help fade age spots. These products can be found over the counter or by prescription, but only treat areas around the eye under the supervision of your doctor. Prescription-strength lighteners with hydroquinone will have more noticeable results than an over-the-counter product, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also remove age spots. Chemical peels use a specialized acidic solution to remove top layers of the epidermis. Microdermabrasion is used to slough off top layers of the epidermis. Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to destroy extra pigments. Light therapy is another method that can give effective results, but it may take several sessions.
Prevention
Avoid intentional tanning and minimize your sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. because UV rays are the most damaging during these hours. Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to any areas not protected by clothing, including around our eyes, advises the American Academy of Dermatology. Wear sunglasses that provide 99 percent UVA and UVB protection to help protect the skin around your eyes.
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