Also known as sunspots, sun lentigines, or liver spots, dark spots tend to appear as we age, most commonly on those areas which get higher sun exposure, i.e., on the face, arms, shoulders (upper back), and the back of the hands.
Despite the name liver spots, these darkened marks have nothing to do with the liver; this nickname is due to their colour, varying from beige to dark brown.
What are dark spots?
Dark spots occur when there is an accumulation or overgrowth of clusters of melanin in the skin. Melanin is the pigment that gives our skin, hair, and iris their colour. It is the substance responsible for tanning when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
With the passing of years and the accumulation of damage by the sun, dark spots are more likely to occur. With age, the skin also gets thinner, and the melanin in the skin shows more easily. Those who have had frequent, unprotected sun exposure usually start to see the appearance of sunspots in their 40s and 50s, some even earlier.
Dark spots vary in size and colour, and they may bunch up in areas much as freckles do. Unlike freckles, they do not go lighter in colour during the winter months but take quite a bit of time to get removed from the skin naturally. As we age, the skin regenerates more slowly, so removing darkened areas may not occur at all.
Dark spots are not dangerous to your health if they are actual age spots. However, since some age spots can look like skin cancer, always speak to a skin specialist if in doubt. Most people decide to correct dark spots with treatment for aesthetic reasons.
I have dark spots! What should I do?
Liftactiv Specialist B3 Dark Spots Serum is a facial treatment that corrects dark spots and reduces wrinkles – the two main anti-ageing concerns. The active ingredients in this serum act on different layers of the skin to target hyperpigmentation and dark spots, reducing their appearance from 8 weeks of use. In doing so, it evens out the complexion for younger-looking skin.
The formula contains Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) which reduces the appearance of dark spots. Glycolic acid causes a gentle peeling of the upper layers of the skin, improving the skin by giving more radiance. Anti-ageing Peptides reduce wrinkles.
Reduction in the intensity of dark spots with Liftactiv Specialist B3 Dark Spots Serum use ranged from -29% up to -71%. Its light, non-greasy texture makes it agreeable with most skin types, even those prone to allergy. The serum is paraben, alcohol, and fragrance-free.
How can I prevent dark spots?
Reduce exposure to the sun to prevent new dark spots from forming, avoiding especially the hours when the sun is at its most intense. Therefore, protect areas prone to dark spots with clothing and use wide-brimmed hats. Wear sunscreen daily, even if you think you will have very little exposure to the sun. Capital Soleil SPF50 Sunscreen will protect your skin from further damage and the formation of dark spots by UV rays from the sun.
When should I seek professional help for my dark spots?
Dark spots are flat on the skin and have the same texture as the rest of the skin. They appear in various shapes and colours, but they mostly resemble freckles or areas of discolouration. Remember the ABCDE of melanoma (appearance, border, colour, diameter, evolution).
If you notice the formation of new moles or unusual spots, seek medical attention, particularly if these are protruding from the skin; have asymmetrical shapes and jagged edges; ooze, crack, or bleed; and appear to change in size over time.
Remember to use Liftactiv Specialist B3 Dark Spots Serum morning and evening every day. For best results, use the serum for more than eight weeks for an even complexion with a significant reduction in age spots. Continue to care for your skin by applying a sun protection product over the serum during the day.
Sources:
Age spots (liver spots)—Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 1 February 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/age-spots/symptoms-causes/syc-20355859
Liver Spots: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment. (n.d.). Retrieved 1 February 2022, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21723-liver-spots
Dark spots on the skin: Causes, treatments, and remedies. (n.d.). Retrieved 1 February 2022, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324833#causes
Age Spots vs. Skin Melanoma: How to Tell the Difference. (n.d.). Retrieved 1 February 2022, from https://www.skincareguide.com/article/skin-conditions/age-spots/age-spots-vs-skin-melanoma-how-to-tell-the-difference