Age spots on the face and hands: everything you need to know

One of our experts, Madalena Vieira Costa, explains: “Age spots are really a reflection of your skin's history rather than your age. They develop after years of cumulative UV exposure, which stimulates the skin to produce extra melanin. While they're usually harmless, they remind us how important daily sun protection is for long-term skin health.”¹

You'll usually find age spots on areas that have had the most sun exposure over the years, including age spots on the face, hands, shoulders, forearms and upper chest. Although they're most common in adults over 50, younger people can develop them too, particularly after lots of time in the sun or using sunbeds. Unlike freckles, which often fade when sun exposure decreases, age spots tend to stay and may become more noticeable over time.^1,2 “Sunspots are one of the most recognisable signs of photoageing – the premature ageing of the skin caused by repeated sun exposure. Over time, cumulative UV damage changes the skin's structure and function, contributing to the formation of these visible spots,” Madalena shares.³

Age spots themselves are harmless and don't become skin cancer. However, because some skin cancers can look similar in their early stages, it's always worth getting any new, changing or unusual marks checked by your GP.⁴

Your skin type, genetics and sun protection habits all influence whether age spots appear. Some medicines can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the likelihood of UV-related pigmentation. If you're taking medication that causes photosensitivity, it's especially important to wear sunscreen every day and follow the advice from your GP or pharmacist.⁵

“Once sunspots have formed, complete reversal through diet or lifestyle alone is unlikely. However, certain skincare ingredients may help reduce their appearance and support overall skin quality,” says Madalena. She adds that improvements are usually gradual and depend on consistent use. Rather than removing existing age spots completely, the aim is to help prevent new blemishes and pigmentation from developing through a consistent skincare routine.³

As Madalena explains, ingredients that support skin and antioxidant defence can all play a role in improving the appearance of photoaged skin. The key is consistency – visible improvements are usually gradual rather than immediate, and both the results and the time it takes to notice them can vary from person to person.

Madalena explains that “a tan is actually the skin's response to UV damage, even if it doesn't look like sunburn”. That's why practising sun safety all year round is one of the best ways to support your skin long term. You can also help protect your skin by:

Sun protection doesn't stop with skincare. According to Madalena, eating a balanced diet rich in colourful fruit and vegetables, vitamin C-rich foods, carotenoids, polyphenols and healthy fats may help support the skin's natural defences against oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. While these nutrients won't prevent or reverse age spots on their own, they can support healthy skin ageing as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.¹²

• laser treatments – target excess pigment in the skin
• chemical peels – encourage skin renewal by removing the outermost layers of skin
• cryotherapy – uses liquid nitrogen to treat individual age spots

These procedures aren't suitable for everyone and can carry risks such as irritation or changes in skin pigmentation, particularly for people with darker skin tones. A dermatologist can talk you through the benefits, risks and expected results to help you decide whether treatment is right for you.¹³

The NHS recommends using the ABCDE guide to spot possible signs of melanoma.¹⁴

• A – asymmetry
• B – irregular border
• C – uneven colour
• D – diameter over 6mm (although melanomas can be smaller)
• E – evolving or changing appearance

As Madalena explains, while age spots are usually harmless, they reflect years of cumulative UV exposure. History of sun damage is one reason it's so important to protect your skin every day and have any unusual or changing marks assessed by a healthcare professional.

“Age spots are really a reflection of your skin's history rather than your age,” reminds Madalena. Looking after your skin with daily sun protection, a consistent skincare routine and healthy lifestyle habits can all support skin ageing over time.

Looking for more ways to protect and care for your skin? Explore our SPF round-up for everyday sun protection and discover the latest skincare innovations in our new in beauty edit.