The difference between age spots and skin cancer – expert on signs

Melanoma refers to a type of skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body, claiming around 16,700 new victims in the UK every year.

Monitoring your skin and spotting any unusual changes is key when trying to detect skin cancer.

However, spotting the difference between age spots, also known as liver spots, and skin cancer can be challenging.

Dr Ross Perry, the Medical Director of Cosmedics Skin Clinics, said: “Age spots and skin cancer can have similarities and if you’re worried, it’s best to get it checked out.”

However, several key characteristics can help distinguish between the two.

Age spots usually look like small, flat, brown or black patches on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun – think face, hands, shoulders and arms.

While skin cancer also occurs in these areas, there is one key difference.

Age spots are usually uniform in colour and have well-defined edges.

Dr Perry said: “Skin cancer will often have a jagged border and is more than one colour, whereas an age spot should look more like a freckle.”

Furthermore, age spots may increase in number and become slightly darker, but they typically remain unchanged.

Perry said: “Melanoma can grow very quickly and can be life-threatening in as little as six weeks.

“You can get a new mole at any time, or a change to an existing mole, which is when you do need to get it checked out.”

Another difference comes down to the texture of age spots and skin cancer.

While age spots are usually flat and smooth, skin cancer may appear rough, scaly, warty, ulcerated or even bleed.

Furthermore, age spots don’t cause any discomfort or warning sensations.

However, skin cancer can be accompanied by various symptoms, including itching, tenderness, pain, or bleeding.

Perry added: “If you find a lesion on your body, it’s best to visit your GP or dermatologist immediately. They will be able to identify whether there is cause for concern.”