What are liver spots?

Liver spots, also known as age spots or solar lentigines, are dark, pigmented patches that appear on the skin. They are caused by excess melanin production due to sun damage and the natural aging process. Although they are not harmful, they can be a cosmetic concern for some people.

Liver spots usually occur on areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, hands, arms, and shoulders. Although they are commonly called liver spots, they are not related to liver function. BBL therapy is one of the most effective treatments for liver spots and can be combined with topical creams to provide even better results. To prevent liver spots, it is important to protect the skin from sun damage and seek medical advice if dark spots appear suddenly or change in size, shape or colour.

Liver spots are harmless and don’t cause health problems, but they can be a cosmetic concern for some people. They are more common in people aged over 50, but can also appear in younger people who have had frequent sun exposure.

The cause of liver spots is believed to be related to the skin’s natural aging process and sun damage. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or solariums/tanning beds can cause the skin to produce more melanin, which gives the skin its colour. Over time, this excess melanin can collect in certain areas, forming liver spots.

To get rid of dark patches on the skin including liver spots, there are several treatment options. These include topical creams, cryotherapy, and light therapy (i.e. laser and intense pulsed light). BroadBand Light (BBL) therapy is one of the most effective treatments for liver spots. BBL treatment uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to target the excess melanin in the skin, breaking it down and causing it to fade. This treatment is non-invasive and rarely requires downtime, making it a popular choice for people who want to improve their appearance quickly.

In addition to sun exposure and aging, other factors can contribute to the development of dark spots on the skin. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can cause hyperpigmentation. Certain medications, such as contraceptive pills and some antibiotics, can also cause dark spots to appear. In some cases, dark spots may be a sign of skin cancer.

To help prevent liver spots, protect the skin from excessive sun exposure by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 every day, even in winter months, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.

Topical treatments, such as hydroquinone and retinoids, can also help to fade liver spots and improve the overall appearance of the skin. When used in combination with BBL therapy, these treatments can provide even better results.