Age or Liver Spots

• Age and liver spots are a type of hyperpigmentation that cause brown to black spots on the face and other areas of the body. The brown spots are caused by an increase in melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Genetics plays a part in developing age or liver spots, but ultraviolet rays or sun exposure is the most common cause of age spots. Age increases the chances of developing brown spots as most individuals produce more melanin as they get older.
  
  

Keratosis

• Actinic and seborrheic are a types of keratosis that cause spots or discoloration on the face. Actinic keratosis symptoms include rough or scaly patches or bumps with a red to brown appearance and may be painful or easily irritated. Actinic keratosis is caused by sun exposure and is often a precursor to skin cancer, but can be treated effectively when caught early. Seborrheic keratosis is common in adults and has a brown mole or wart-like appearance. Other than genetics, the exact cause of seborrheic keratosis is unknown, but the spots are considered harmless and may be removed for cosmetic reasons.
  
  

Melasma

• Melasma causes brown or grey skin discoloration on the face. The spots may show up individually or cover large areas of the face. Melasma is more common in women than men. Hormonal changes, certain medications and genetics are factors in developing melasma and sun exposure may exacerbate the problem. Melasma caused by hormonal changes such as pregnancy, birth control or hormone therapy often resolves itself after pregnancy or when medication is stopped.
  
  

Phototoxic Medication

• Phototoxic medications may cause skin to become sensitive to sunlight. Initially, the symptoms of phototoxic light sensitivity appear much like a sunburn or rash. The results of this "sunburn" may include hyperpigmentation or brown spots on the skin. Some drugs associated with phototoxic reaction include tetracycline, sulfonamides, acne medications, some antihistamines and certain arthritis medications such as quinine.
  
  

Removal

• Brown spots on the face are often treatable via medication, dermatology treatments or excision. Age spots and melasma and other hyperpigmentation conditions may be treated with oral or topical medications, laser therapy, chemical peels or dermabrasion. Raised lesions such as moles or keratosis spots are usually removed by freezing, excising or laser treatments.
  
  

Prevention

• Most brown spots on the face are preventable. Sun exposure is the most common culprit in skin discoloration. Sun damage may not show up until later in life, but too much sun even as a child can significantly increase the chances of developing hyperpigmentation. The best defense against brown spots or more serious skin conditions is covering the skin as much as possible when outdoors. This includes longer sleeves, hats and sunglasses. Sunscreen should be applied as a part of a daily regime, especially on the face where sun exposure is most prevalent.