When it comes to liver spots these are characterized by a blotchy darker patch of skin and most often they appear on the face and on the backs of the hands.
Also known as sun spots they result when the skin is exposed to excessive sunlight.
These darker patches can occur on other parts of the body as well such as on the chest or the back.
They are flat and irregular in shape.
Usually there is no need to be alarmed when one discovers an age spot because they are not dangerous and can be removed using either a topical treatment, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and so on.
When you discover an age spot the best thing to do is to schedule a visit with your dermatologist so that they can have a look at it and determine whether or not there is cause for concern.
In most cases they are determined to be harmless other than marring appearance and compromising your aesthetic appeal.
Your dermatologist will be able to recommend a suitable treatment so that the age spot can be removed effectively and safely.
When you have a treatment for the removal of liver spots or sun spots it is important that you research your options thoroughly.
There are different options available to you that could be simple such as applying a bleaching cream, or more invasive like microdermabrasion.
Some of the treatments have side effects that you might prefer to avoid while others require a fairly extended recuperation period that can span months.
Certain side effects to consider depending upon the treatment that you undergo include: * Permanent scarring * Pain and discomfort * Permanent lightening of the surrounding area * Permanent darkening of the surrounding area * Allergic reaction * Irritation Some treatments are particularly costly and you will need to know what the costs involved are before you make your final decision.
Also, some of the treatments will require more than a single application and therefore this will also need to be considered.
When liver spots occur it is because there is extra melanin in the skin being produced as the body's way of protecting itself against the ultra violet rays of the sun.
It is important to always wear a sunscreen and protective clothing irrespective of whether it is overcast or clear outside.
You can prevent the recurrence of sun spots if you are prepared to take the necessary precautions.
Some treatments, such as chemical peels, are not advisable if you intend to tan afterward so you will need to discuss this with your dermatologist prior to undergoing treatment.
Certain bleaching creams are also available these days that can be purchased over the counter although they are not really advisable for home use.
It is difficult to ensure that the cream will only be on the affected area and will not come into contact with the skin around the sun spot.
Likewise one can now purchase at home dermabrasion kits.
While some people feel that these kits are very beneficial others feel that they are best avoided.
When it comes to microdermabrasion and chemical peels these procedures should only be performed by a suitably trained professional who knows what they are doing.
It is important to understand that microdermabrasion results cannot be guaranteed and this needs to be properly understood before you agree to have this procedure.
It is known to be rather uncomfortable and the recovery period can last up to 12 weeks.
In the case of chemical peels, depending upon the depth of the peel, a local anesthetic will be used to help with the discomfort.
For deeper peels a general anesthetic might be necessary.
After the procedure is completed you are likely to be in a significant amount of discomfort and your doctor will more than likely prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain medication for use at home.
There are other ways to reduce the appearance of age or sun spots using home remedies.
You can find many homeopathic treatments available that do not contain harsh chemicals and yet can be surprisingly effective nonetheless.
Be sure to research any such treatments before you use them.