The trials of aging

February 3, 2011 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a senior citizen and, of late, am getting many brown spots on my body and arms. These spots are called seborrheic keratoses. Do you have any information or cures that you could provide?

DEAR READER: Seborrheic keratoses are common noncancerous skin growths that ordinarily affect older adults. They cause slightly raised brown, black or pale lesions that can appear waxy or scaly. They are round or oval in shape and can grow to an inch or more in size. Some may itch. The growths can develop in clusters or appear singularly, and most often appear on the head, neck or torso.
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Nail polish for liver spots

October 27, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: You recently wrote about liver spots. Two years ago, I used clear nail polish to get rid of my liver spots. I had two big ones on my face, and the nail polish worked like a charm.

DEAR READER: Folk remedies include apple-cider vinegar combined with orange juice; castor oil; lemon juice; grated onion; and green (unripe) black walnuts. Then there are vitamins C and E and zinc. So what more can I say? If clear nail polish worked for you without side effects, it may have to be added to the list of possibilities. Before using home remedies, have a doctor examine the lesions to ensure that they are not cancerous.

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Age spots on those with dark skin

July 24, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 50-year-old light-skinned black female with dark spots on my face. My doctor says they are age spots. I have never smoked or consumed alcohol, nor have I ever worn makeup. Is there any over-the-counter product that is affordable you might recommend?

DEAR READER: Liver spots, also known as age spots, are common in people who are over the age of 40 and in those who may have had chronic sunlight exposure without protective sunscreen. The spots are harmless and do not require treatment. They typically appear on light-skinned people but can affect anyone. Exposure to ultraviolet light speeds up the production of melanin, the dark pigment in the outer layers of skin that give it color. [Read more...]

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Liver spots unrelated to liver activity

May 1, 2010 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: Some time ago, I began noticing dark discolorations on my face. The condition was diagnosed as hyperpigmentation. Three dermatologists offered varying suggestions. One said to use facial products containing hydroquinone. One suggested chemical peels. The third indicated nothing will diminish the pigment.

I’ve tried many facial products with no improvement. And, at age 70, I do not wish to try invasive treatments such as chemical peels. I have not found makeup or a concealer that provides good cover.
Is there a product you would recommend, or should I just learn to live with these discolorations? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
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Insurance won’t cover cosmetic procedure

January 24, 2008 By

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am 83 years old and have developed an appreciable number of dark spots on my face over the past few years. I read laser treatment might remove them, but unfortunately my insurance company won’t cover the procedure. Is there an alternative method for this cosmetic condition?

DEAR READER: Actinic keratoses (age spots) are one unfortunate development that affects many people as they age. The lesions most often appear on the backs of hands, faces and arms. They and are generally harmless unless they markedly change in appearance; that is, they darken, enlarge, or bleed.
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