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Human skin has many functions, it is the largest organ of the common human shell. Its condition and condition inform us about many factors that affect our body from the outside, as well as about what is happening inside. One such sign is liver spots. Is this a signal of concern? Should we be afraid of them? What are they and where do they come from?
Liver spots – characteristics
Liver spots are otherwise pigmentation spots or age spots. Contrary to their name, they have nothing to do with liver disease. Their color resembles the color of the liver, hence the reference in the name. Liver spots appear as a result of frequent exposure to sunlight. We often learn about their existence years later.
Liver spots – causes
They usually appear only after the age of 40, which is why they are called age spots. However, they can also appear in young people who like to sunbathe for a long time. Overexposure to solar radiation as early as childhood contributes to the formation of liver spots. Another important omission is not protecting the skin with sunscreen. Taking medications also makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight and makes it prone to age spots. These include diuretics, tetracyclines, drugs for diabetes, blood pressure and contraceptive drugs.
People with fair and sun-sensitive skin and pregnant women are also at risk. Pregnant women are particularly at risk of developing liver spots. During pregnancy, the body is more susceptible to the effects of hormones, especially estrogens, which lead to the overproduction of melanin and thus discoloration.
Liver spots – symptoms
Liver spots look like freckles and moles. They may be of irregular shapes. They often have white spots in the center and a cluster of smaller ones around one larger spot.
Liver spots are most often located on:
- hands (especially on the outside),
- face
- neckline,
- arms,
- any places on the body that are exposed to the sun.
Liver spots – treatment
Liver spots in most cases are not dangerous to health or life, but they constitute an unsightly appearance. They cannot be removed completely, but there are a number of dermatological and cosmetic treatments that allow the liver palms to lighten:
- the use of discoloration whitening ointments, as well as home remedies: lemon juice, aloe gel, honey and ginger pulp,
- dermabrasion treatment, i.e. strong surface exfoliation of the epidermis with a special head,
- acid-based peels, strongly exfoliating in the deep layers of the skin,
- laser therapy,
- freezing stains with liquid nitrogen.
The above treatments are more invasive than home and pharmacy ointments, so always consult your doctor before the treatment.
Liver spots – prevention
The best preventive measure is to use sunscreen with UVA and UVB filters before sun exposure. In addition, sunbathing in summer and during holidays in warm countries should be dosed in moderation. Remember not to expose yourself to the sun for too long during the hours when the sun is at its highest in the sky (between 11am and 15pm). It is also necessary to supplement with beta-carotene, which makes the skin immune to harmful radiation.