Liver spots are flat brown-black spots that usually occur in sun-exposed areas of the body. They are also called age spots. They are unrelated to the liver or liver function.

Liver spots are changes in skin color associated with older skin. The increased pigmentation may be brought on by aging, exposure to sun or other forms of ultraviolet light, or other unknown causes.

Liver spots are extremely common after the age of 40. They occur most often on the backs of the hands, on the forearms, shoulder, face, and forehead, areas of highest sun exposure.

They are harmless and painless, but they may affect the cosmetic appearance. Occasionally, liver spots may obscure the diagnosis of skin cancers.

The main symptom is a skin lesion that is a painless, flat patch or macule (area of skin color change):

• Usual color: light brown to black
• Usual location: hands, arms, or forehead

A diagnosis is based on the appearance of the skin, especially if the patient is over 40 and has had a lot of sun exposure over the years.