Age Spots vs. Skin Cancer: What Every Senior Should Know

As we age, small pigmented spots—often called age spots, liver spots, or sunspots—can appear on the skin, especially in areas that have seen a lifetime of sun exposure. These are usually harmless. However, some skin cancers can look similar, which means it’s vital to know what to watch for—and when to get checked. 

What Are Age Spots (Solar Lentigines)? 

• Age spots are flat, usually oval, pigmented patches that range from light tan to dark brown. 

• They’re caused by an accumulation of melanin (skin pigment) in areas repeatedly exposed to UV light over the years. 

• While purely cosmetic, they signal sun damage, so they’re a reminder to stay vigilant with sun protection. 

• If desired, age spots can be lightened or removed with treatments like topical bleaching creams, laser therapy, or cryotherapy.  

How Skin Cancer in Seniors Differs 

• For older adults, the risk of skin cancer increases: decades of sun exposure can lead to more skin changes, and cancer rates rise with age.  

• Common types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. 

• Warning signs of skin cancer include: 

• Asymmetrical shape or irregular borders 

• Multiple colors in one spot 

• Texture changes (raised, scaly, or rough) 

• Spots that grow, itch, bleed, or don’t heal. 

• Common types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. 

Age Spots vs. Precancerous Growths 

• Not all suspicious spots are immediately cancer — some are actinic keratosis, a precancerous lesion caused by sun damage. 

• Unlike flat age spots, actinic keratoses often feel rough or scaly. 

• Because precancerous and cancerous spots can look like benign age spots, it’s wise to have any new or changing spot evaluated by a dermatology professional.  

What Seniors Can Do to Protect Their Skin 

1. Perform regular skin self-exams. Inspect sun-exposed areas (hands, face, arms) and note new spots or changes in existing ones. 

2. Know the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter (larger than a pencil eraser), and Evolution (changes over time). 

3. Use daily sun protection. Wear sunscreen (SPF 30+), long sleeves, hats, and stay in the shade during peak sun hours. 

4. See a dermatologist regularly. If a spot is raised, dark, bleeding, or changing — or simply worries you — ask about a skin biopsy or closer evaluation. 

5. Stay proactive. Even if a spot is just an age spot, it's a sign your skin has been exposed to a lot of sun. Regular check-ups help catch anything serious early. 

Age spots are common, usually harmless reminders of sun exposure over the years. But because skin cancer can mimic them, staying alert and informed matters — especially for older adults. Early detection and protection are your best defenses. 

If you or a loved one notices any new or changing marks, make an appointment with a dermatologist. And in the meantime, protect your skin: it's the foundation of your health and well-being. 

Unified Pledge is a leading provider of in-home senior care solutions in Palm Beach County and Broward County. We offer free, no-obligation in-home consultations, cost estimates, and insurance policy benefit reviews

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