disease
Definition, causes and symptoms of age spots
First, the dermatologist clarifies whether it is pigmentary disorders or liver spots. The latter can only be surgically removed if necessary. Age spots (medically: lentigines solares) are harmless discolorations of the skin . They occur mainly in places that are exposed to the sun as much as hands and face. UV light stimulates the melanocytes in the epidermis, increasing the color pigment to form melanin and leading to age spots. This can lead to accumulations that are permanently visible as brown spots. If the brown spot is sublime, many think of dark skin cancer . But often it is just a harmless wart, which has formed by keratinization of the dander from the age spots .
Treatment of age spots
Age spots become brighter by applying bleaching creams containing the active ingredient hydroquinone. Disadvantage: You have to be patient until the age spots really fade. It's faster with the so-called Nd: Yag laser. After the treatment you should definitely pay attention to good sunscreen. The best time for lasering is autumn and winter . Also, raised brown spots, which are usually by keratinization of the dander, from which age spots have formed, can be easily removed: The site is anesthetized and then scraped flat with a spoon (medical: Curette). Also there is a sunscreen is essential.
Prevent and help with age spots
Age spots can only be prevented if one avoids strong sun exposure at a very early age and at a young age and generally uses sunscreen with a high sun protection factor. In addition, you can prophylactically apply vitamin E (medical: tocopherol) internally and externally, as it protects the upper layer of the skin from oxidation. Also vitamin C, carotenoids, the coenzyme Q10, bioflavonoids, zinc and selenium are useful in preventing age spots. In general, premature aging of the skin also prevents the renunciation of alcohol and tobacco smoke.
