Age spots, which are sometimes called liver spots or brown spots, happen after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. They can be tan, brown or black, vary in size and usually appear on the areas most exposed to the sun such as the face, hands, shoulders and arms.

What Causes Brown/Age Spots?

Age spots are caused by overactive pigment cells. Generally speaking, these spots tend to be caused naturally by aging, though a love of the sun can definitely speed up this process. 

People with lighter skin tones tend to be more likely to develop these spots as they age. Because sun accelerates the appearance of age spots, those who frequently get sunburns or who like to over tan their skin are also at a higher risk. 

How Do I Know If I Have Age Spots? 

These spots are fairly easy to recognize; however, they are characterized by several appearance-based factors. 

• Colour: As the name implies, brown spots or age spots are often brown or black. They may darken after prolonged sun exposure.
• Texture: These spots retain the same skin texture as the rest of your body. They remain flat, even to the touch, and do not cause pain.
  Size: Sizing varies quite drastically. Age spots can be pin-sized or up to an inch or so in diameter.
• Grouping: These types of spots tend to appear either on their own to start with, or they may be clustered together. 
  Shape: These types of spots have very defined edges and are either oval or round.