Answers.com Article: Getting Rid of Age Spots

The following is a preview of an article Dr. Miller wrote for Answers.com. Click here to read the full article.

One of the most common complaints in the dermatology office regards age spots and how to get rid of them. Indeed, one telltale sign of aging is the appearance of the irregular brown spots on the back of the hands sometimes referred to as "liver spots" due to their brown color. No wonder many people want to try to find a way to get rid of them.

What Are Age Spots?

The medical term for an age spot is 'lentigo' (lentigines is plural). Age spots or lentigines are caused by a lifetime of sun accumulation on the areas in which they are seen. The back of the hands, the forearms, chest and face get more sun than any other part of the body which is why we see age spots more frequently in those areas.

Can Age Spots Be Prevented?

Prevention of age spots or lentigines is actually the best treatment for them. Protecting the skin from the sun at an early age and throughout life is important. Avoiding the sun during the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., wearing protective clothing and sunscreen are all ways to not only avoid the appearance of age spots, but will protect against the formation of skin cancer as well.

How Can Age Spots Be Treated?

There are several treatments available to treat lentigines or age spots. It is important to continue preventative measures such as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing during treatment. This way new age spots are not forming as you treat the current age spots. Treatment can be initiated with over the counter creams containing hydroquinone. Prescription strength creams, chemical peels and Intense Pulsed Light laser treatments are available as cosmetic treatments for age spots.

For more information about treating age spots, click here to read the rest of Dr. Miller’s article. Visit Greenville Dermatology’s retail store today to browse our selection of topical creams for age spots, or schedule a consultation with one of our physicians by calling (864) 242-5872.