Brown spots are also known as “age spots” or “liver spots”. Brown spots are common and are more likely to appear in older individuals or those who have high exposure to the sun or tanning beds. Age spots affect people of all skin types but are more common in those with lighter skin tones. Unlike a freckle, they don’t fade away with less sun exposure and can get up to half an inch in size.
They typically don’t require a doctor visit but if they change in appearance or size these can be a sign of something more serious. These characteristics can be a sign of melanoma or skin cancer.
Dermatologists have a number of treatments for “liver spots”.
Your dermatologist will determine the severity of your brown spots and if it is a sign of melanoma. During your consultation, your doctor will recommend the best treatment for you.