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What are sunspots?

Sun spots caused by fungus often make patches of skin appear lighter than usual in dark-skinned people and darker than usual in light-skinned people. Doctors diagnose the infection by its appearance or by using an ultraviolet light. Sun spots are quite common among young adults and are usually painless.

Treatments to get rid of the fungus include herbal, over-the-counter, and prescription medications. It may take up to four weeks before you see an improvement. Also, the fungus is very likely to grow back.

Sun spots caused by excessive exposure to the sun are called solar lentigines. They’re also called "age spots" or "liver spots." They appear as dark, flat, discolored patches on the skin. To prevent this type of sun spot, avoid excessive sun exposure and use a sunscreen of SFP 15 or higher. Treatment of solar lentigines often includes skin bleaching agents, which are available over the counter and by prescription. Full fading can take from three weeks to six months. Freezing or laser treatments may be used to get rid of sun spots in some cases.

If you think you have sun spots, see a dermatologist to find out which kind you have and how to treat them. If a sunspot changes in size, shape, or color, schedule an examination with your doctor.

Sources:
Mayo Clinic Family Health Book. William Morrow & Co., 1996.
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1999.
Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology, Mosby—Year Book, 1996.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2006.

This answer prepared 11/08/2000.
This information updated 12/13/2006.