What Causes Age Spots to Get Bigger?

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Age Spots: The Reasons Behind Their Growth

Age spots, also known as solar lentigines, are flat, darkened areas of skin commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, arms, and shoulders. While typically harmless, noticing age spots growing bigger can be concerning. Let’s explore the reasons behind this growth and strategies to manage it.

Age Spots: A Familiar Foe

Age spots arise from an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. The main culprit behind this overproduction is sun exposure. When ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun hit the skin, they stimulate melanin production to shield the skin from further damage. Over time, this uneven distribution of melanin manifests as age spots. These spots are benign and usually brown in color. [ 1 ]

Related Article: Should You Remove Age Spots?

When Age Spots Enlarge: The Causes

Several factors can contribute to the growth of age spots:

• Sun exposure:

  Continued sun exposure is the leading cause of age spot enlargement. UV rays stimulate further melanin production, potentially causing existing spots to darken and grow bigger.

• Skin aging:

  As we age, our skin’s natural cell renewal process slows down. This can lead to a buildup of melanin-laden cells in the skin, contributing to the enlargement of age spots.

• Inflammation:

  Irritation from scratching, rubbing, or using harsh skincare products on age spots can cause inflammation, leading to increased melanin production and potential enlargement.

• Hormonal changes:

  Fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly during pregnancy or menopause, can sometimes influence melanin production and contribute to the growth of age spots.

It’s important to note that not all age spots will enlarge. However, understanding these potential causes can help you manage them effectively.

Monitoring Age Spots: Recognizing Signs of Change

Keeping an eye on your age spots is crucial. Here’s what to watch for:

• Increased size:

  The most obvious sign is a noticeable increase in the diameter of an age spot.

• Darker color:

  A deepening of the brown color of an age spot might indicate ongoing melanin production.

• Uneven borders:

  While age spots typically have smooth, round borders, a spot with irregular or jagged borders warrants evaluation.

If you notice any of these changes, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.

Differential Diagnosis: Ruling Out Other Possibilities

A healthcare professional can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the enlarging spot. Here’s what you can expect:

• Visual examination:

  The doctor will closely examine the spot, looking for its size, color, and border characteristics.

• Dermoscopy:

  In some cases, a handheld magnifying device called a dermatoscope may be used for a closer look at the spot’s structure.

• Biopsy:

  If necessary, a small tissue sample might be taken for microscopic examination to rule out any skin cancers.

By performing these examinations, the doctor can accurately diagnose the cause of the enlarging spot and recommend appropriate management strategies.

Managing Age Spots: Preventing Growth and Lightening Existing Spots

While we cannot entirely reverse age-related changes, certain strategies can help prevent further growth and lighten existing age spots:

• Sun protection:

  Consistent sun protection is vital. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher liberally and evenly to all exposed skin 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

• Sun-protective clothing:

  When outdoors, wear protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and pants.

• Seek shade:

  Whenever possible, limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak UV hours (10 am to 4 pm).

• Skincare routine:

  Consult a dermatologist or aesthetician for a gentle skincare routine that can help improve overall skin health and potentially reduce the appearance of age spots.

In some cases, lightening treatments like topical creams, chemical peels, or laser therapy might be recommended by a healthcare professional to address existing age spots.

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Age Spots – Understanding Growth and Taking Control

Age spots can enlarge due to various factors, primarily sun exposure and skin aging. By understanding these causes and implementing preventive measures like sun protection, you can significantly reduce the risk of enlargement. Monitoring your age spots and seeking professional advice for any concerning changes is crucial. Remember, early detection and management are key to keeping age spots under control.