Age spots (liver spots)

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Risk factors

By Mayo Clinic staff

Although anyone can develop age spots, you may be more likely to develop the condition if you:

  • Have light-colored or fair skin
  • Have a history of frequent or intense sun exposure or sunburn
References
  1. Schaffer JV, et al. Benign pigmented skin lesions other than melanocytic nevi (moles). http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 3, 2008.
  2. Ortonne JP, et al. Treatment of solar lentigines. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2006;54:S262.
  3. Farris PK. Combination therapy for solar lentigines. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2004;3:S23.
  4. What you need to know about moles and dysplastic nevi. National Cancer Institute. http://www.cancer.gov/pdf/WYNTK/WYNTK_moles.pdf. Accessed Dec. 4, 2008.
  5. The sun and your skin. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/sun_sun.html. Accessed Dec. 3, 2008.
  6. Habif TP. Light-related diseases and disorders of pigmentation. In: Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Therapy. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby; 2004. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/112580021-4/0/1195/130.html?tocnode=51442208&fromURL=130.html#4-u1.0-B0-323-01319-8..50021-2--cesec13_2361. Accessed Dec. 4, 2008.
  7. Alpha hydroxy acids. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Dec. 4, 2008.
  8. Draelos ZD. Skin lightening preparations and the hydroquinone controversy. Dermatologic Therapy. 2007;20:308.
  9. Chawla S, et al. Mechanism of tyrosinase inhibition by deoxyArbutin and its second-generation derivatives. British Journal of Dermatology. 2008;159:1267.

DS00912

March 20, 2009

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