Hyperpigmentation

Age spots (also known as lentigines, liver spots or lentigo’s) are a common example of hyperpigmentation, showing as small patches that appear darker than the skin’s usual colour. 

The skin’s colouring is determined by a natural pigment called Melanin, generated in the upper layers of the skin. When this pigment is overproduced it causes the skin to go darker in colour. The sun’s rays can be a stimulant for Melanin, and is what causes the skin to tan. 

Tanning is a reaction by the body, caused by exposure to UV rays and occurs in order to protect the deeper layers of the skin. This same reaction can be triggered through the use of tanning beds and sun lamps.

Small flat patches of hyperpigmentation, or age spots, most commonly appear anywhere on the face, neck and hands. Their development is often due to frequent sun exposure over a number of years. It is for this reason that hyperpigmentation is associated with ageing, however, discoloured skin can be caused by damage to the tissues – and is the reason it can accompany acne scarring.