Skip to main content
  • Home
  • Age Spots: Not always there to stay!

Age Spots: Not always there to stay!

In their forties, at times even sooner, some women will develop what are commonly known as “age spots” or “liver spots.” These brownish blemishes are a form of localized hyperpigmentation of the skin due to an increased production of melanin (brown pigments).
 
They generally appear on the most sun-exposed areas of the body: face, neckline, arms, shoulders and hands.
Age spots tend to make skin appear older than it actually is. While considered unsightly, they are, however, completely harmless.  
 
 

Causes of age spots

Many factors can lead to age spots:
 
  • Aging of the skin
  • Repeated and excessive exposure to UV rays
  • Certain medications such as oral contraceptives
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
  • Acne 
  • Injury to the skin
 

Preventing and treating age spots

We know that UV rays are the biggest culprit behind the development of age spots. The best way to prevent them is, of course, to use adequate sun protection when spending time outdoors. 

Certain anti-aging dermo-cosmetic products are specifically formulated to prevent and minimize the appearance of age spots. For the most part, they contain active ingredients, such as glycolic acid, which stimulate exfoliation and promote cell regeneration.
It can take time for age spots to disappear. The products generally need to be used for four to six weeks before the pigmented cells from the lowest levels of the epidermis are pushed toward the surface of the skin and eliminated by exfoliation. In some cases, older, deeper spots may be more difficult to lighten.
 

Pharmacy services

Your dermo-cosmetic consultant can recommend products to help prevent age spots. Don’t hesitate to talk to her on your next visit!   
 

The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.

* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.

What would you like to know

Ask us a question about the topic of your choice and we'll try to address it in a future article.

This field is required.
NEWSLETTER SIGNUP
Don't miss out, subscribe to our newsletter!
Every week, you will receive a newsletter full of health advice, great offers and exclusive promotions!