Sun spots are flat, dark marks that typically appear in places that are regularly exposed to the sun such as the face, hands, shoulders and arms. They are sometimes referred to as liver spots, but they have nothing to do with the liver.
Sun spots are caused by overactive pigment cells known as melanocytes. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, melanocytes produce melanin which protects the skin from harmful UV rays. Melanin causes the skin to turn brown. Sometimes melanocytes produce too much melanin. Over time, high volumes of the pigment can become clumped, forming sun spots.
Sun spots are harmless, yet for cosmetic reasons, people often seek treatment to remove them.
If you relate to this condition but still feel unsure, at Harpenden Skin Clinic we are always here to help and advise patients on the best possible treatment journey performed by experienced clinicians.
