Pigment Disorders
Solar Lentigo
Age spot; liver spot; sun spot
Very common with age and sun exposure
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
Harmless; can be lightened if desired
What Is It?
A solar lentigo is a flat, tan-to-brown spot caused by years of sun exposure — commonly called an age spot or sun spot. They are harmless and appear on areas that get the most sun. They differ from freckles by persisting year-round and tending to enlarge slowly with age.
Signs & Symptoms
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A flat, tan, brown, or dark spot
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Well-defined edges, round or oval
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On sun-exposed areas: face, hands, shoulders, arms
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Painless and does not itch
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Stays year-round (unlike freckles that fade in winter)
Why Does It Happen?
Solar lentigines form when ultraviolet (UV) light triggers extra pigment (melanin) in one area of skin. Years of sun exposure cause these pigment cells to cluster, leaving a lasting spot. They are more common with age and in people with significant sun exposure. They are NOT cancerous.
Treatment Options
No treatment is needed because these spots are harmless. Cosmetic options can lighten them, and any spot that changes should be evaluated to rule out other conditions.
LEAVE IT ALONE
The usual choice — they are harmless and need no treatment.
TOPICAL LIGHTENERS
Retinoids or other creams may gradually fade the spot.
CRYOTHERAPY
Light freezing can lighten a spot, with care about pigment changes.
LASER / LIGHT THERAPY
Targeted treatments can reduce pigment for cosmetic goals.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Use daily sunscreen to prevent new spots and darkening
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Wear a hat and protective clothing in strong sun
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Note any spot that darkens unevenly, grows, or changes
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Avoid tanning beds, which worsen and multiply spots
When to Call Your Provider
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A spot changes color unevenly, grows, or has irregular borders
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A spot bleeds, itches, or becomes raised
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A new dark spot looks different from your others
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You're unsure whether a spot is harmless
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
DermNet. Solar Lentigo. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/solar-lentigo
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Photoaging. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-conditions/photoaging/
MSD/Merck Manual. Lentigines. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/pigmentation-disorders/lentigines
Cleveland Clinic. Age Spots (Solar Lentigines). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22630-age-spots
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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