Lentigines (Sun Spots / Age Spots) - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Medically reviewed by Dr. Anand S. Urhekar, MD, MD Pathology, Clinical Advisor · Last updated July 2026
Flat, sharply defined brown patches caused by cumulative ultraviolet exposure, typically on the face, backs of the hands, forearms, shoulders and upper back. They are harmless but are a visible marker of sun damage and an indicator of raised skin cancer risk.
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Quick Answer
Solar lentigines — sun spots or age spots — are flat, evenly coloured brown patches from cumulative UV exposure, usually on the face, hands and shoulders. They are harmless but signal significant sun damage. Daily SPF 30+ prevents new ones; cryotherapy, chemical peels, pigment lasers and topical tyrosinase inhibitors fade existing spots. Any spot with uneven colour, an irregular edge or recent change needs checking.
Symptoms
- Flat tan to dark brown patches, 5 mm to 2 cm across
- Sharply defined edges and uniform colour
- Face, dorsal hands, forearms, shoulders and upper back
- Increase in number and size with age and sun exposure
- No itch, scale or elevation
Causes & Risk Factors
- Cumulative ultraviolet exposure over decades
- Sunbed use
- Fair skin and a history of sunburns
- Age over 40
Treatment & Management
- Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 to prevent new spots
- Cryotherapy for individual lesions
- Q-switched or picosecond pigment lasers, and IPL
- Chemical peels and topical retinoids
- Topical tyrosinase inhibitors such as azelaic acid or hydroquinone under supervision
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor about any pigmented spot that is changing, has more than one colour, an irregular or blurred border, is raised, itchy or bleeding — lentigo maligna can start as an apparent age spot on the face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sun spots the same as freckles?
No. Freckles appear in childhood, darken in summer and fade in winter. Solar lentigines appear from midlife onwards, are larger and darker, and do not fade seasonally.
Should a growing brown spot on the face be checked?
Yes. A slowly enlarging patch on chronically sun-exposed facial skin with uneven colour can be lentigo maligna, an early melanoma. Dermoscopic assessment is the safe next step.
Medical References
Information on this page is sourced from and verified against reputable medical resources:
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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.