Liver spots—also known as age spots or solar lentigines—are flat, brown or grey patches that commonly appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin. While completely harmless, many people seek treatment to improve the cosmetic appearance of their skin and to rule out other pigmented lesions that could be concerning.
At the London Dermatology Centre, we offer a range of highly effective treatment options for liver spots, tailored to suit your skin type and personal goals. Our consultant dermatologists will assess your skin and recommend a safe and targeted treatment plan that delivers visible results.
Liver spots are areas of localised pigmentation that typically develop with age and cumulative sun exposure. They are most often found on the face, hands, shoulders, chest, and arms—places that receive the most UV light over the years.
Key characteristics include:
Despite the name, liver spots have no connection to liver function or disease. They are caused by an increase in melanin production due to long-term UV damage.
While liver spots are benign, they can be mistaken for more serious skin conditions such as melanoma or pigmented basal cell carcinoma. A professional evaluation by a dermatologist is important to confirm the diagnosis.
Many patients choose to have liver spots treated for cosmetic reasons. These marks can be especially frustrating on the face or hands, where they can be quite prominent and difficult to conceal.
Treatment not only improves the appearance of the skin but also enhances overall skin tone and texture, helping you feel more confident in your appearance.
We offer a variety of advanced treatments to reduce or remove liver spots effectively and safely. Your dermatologist will recommend the most suitable approach depending on your skin type, location of the spots, and personal preferences.
Laser therapy is one of the most popular and effective options for treating liver spots. Using targeted light energy, the pigment is broken down and naturally eliminated by the body over time.
This involves applying a controlled burst of liquid nitrogen to freeze the pigmented area. The treated skin will darken and then peel off over a few days, revealing clearer skin beneath.
Prescription creams containing ingredients like hydroquinone, tretinoin, or azelaic acid can gradually lighten pigmented areas.
Superficial chemical peels can exfoliate the upper layers of skin, helping to reduce uneven pigmentation and improve overall skin tone.
Our consultant-led team has extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of liver spots and other pigmentation issues. We use only evidence-based methods and the latest skin technologies to ensure safe and lasting results.
From your first consultation to your final treatment session, we’re committed to helping you feel confident in your skin.
During your initial visit, one of our dermatologists will carefully examine your skin to confirm that your pigmentation is indeed benign liver spots. We may use a dermatoscope or recommend additional tests if there is any uncertainty.
Once a diagnosis is made, we’ll discuss your treatment options and answer any questions you may have. We’ll also provide advice on sun protection to help prevent new spots from forming in the future.
Liver spots, also known as age spots or solar lentigines, are caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Over time, sun damage leads to an increase in melanin production in certain areas of the skin, resulting in flat, pigmented patches.
Liver spots themselves are harmless and non-cancerous. However, because some skin cancers can resemble benign pigmented lesions, it's important to have any new or changing marks checked by a dermatologist to rule out more serious conditions.
Yes, many liver spots can be effectively treated and removed using laser therapy, cryotherapy, or chemical peels. While treatment can remove existing spots, new ones may still form over time without sun protection, so preventive care is essential.
The number of sessions required depends on the size, number, and depth of your liver spots as well as the type of treatment chosen. Laser or IPL treatment often yields visible results in one to three sessions, while topical treatments and peels may take longer.
Most liver spot treatments are well tolerated. Laser therapy may feel like a mild stinging sensation, while cryotherapy causes a brief cold feeling. Any discomfort is typically short-lived, and we offer aftercare advice to support a smooth recovery.
Freckles are usually genetic and appear in childhood, often fading with age or in winter. Liver spots are typically larger, darker, and result from sun exposure over time. A dermatologist can differentiate between the two during your consultation.
Treated liver spots rarely return in the exact same location, but new ones may develop with ongoing sun exposure. That’s why we always recommend daily sun protection and regular skin checks to maintain results and prevent further pigmentation.
Downtime is minimal for most liver spot treatments. You may experience mild redness, darkening of the treated area, or light flaking for a few days. We’ll provide full aftercare guidance to support healing and maximise results.
Most treatments can be safely used on a wide range of skin tones, though certain devices or products may be better suited to specific skin types. Your dermatologist will assess your skin and choose the safest, most effective option for you.
To schedule an appointment, please call us on 020 7467 3720 or use our contact form. Our team will be happy to arrange your consultation and answer any further questions.
The London Dermatology Centre is based at 69 Wimpole Street, London, W1G 8AS, in the heart of the Harley Street medical district. We're just a short walk from Oxford Circus, Bond Street, and Regent’s Park Underground stations, making it simple to reach us from anywhere in London.
Our clinic provides a discreet, comfortable, and modern environment for all your skin care needs. Whether you're coming in for a single treatment or ongoing care, our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re arriving by car, there are pay-and-display bays and private car parks nearby. For help with travel plans, feel free to contact our reception team on 020 7467 3720.
Monday - Friday: 9.00 AM - 5.30 PM
Saturday & Sunday: Closed
69 Wimpole Street,
London W1G 8AS.
If you’re concerned about liver spots or are simply looking to improve the clarity and tone of your skin, we’re here to help. Book a consultation with one of our expert dermatologists today.
Call us on 020 7467 3720 or use our contact form to schedule your visit.
