Age Spots
Description
Age spots (or "liver spots") are popular names for those flat brown spots, or keratoses, which tend to develop on the skin (especially the exposed surfaces: face and hands) with age.
Causes
Age spots are a by-product of free radical damage, not only to the skin cells but the body as a whole. Usually harmless, some do develop into skin cancer, so they should be monitored by a dermatologist.
They are actually composed of lipofuscin accumulation, a byproduct from oxidation.
Signs & Symptoms
Some authorities do believe that liver spots are an indicator of poor liver function and recommend nutritional support for, and cleansing of, the liver, as part of the treatment.
However, the dominant view links them to overexposure to the sun.
There isn't usually any overt symptom, so it is often regarded as purely cosmetic. Women tend to cover over the spots, or have them chemically removed (see tretinoin). However, this is no guarantee that they will not return, nor that the area will not develop a cancer.
Continued vigilance is required: observing the site, in dressing appropriately for unavoidable sun exposure and avoiding direct sunlight.
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function:
Hair, Skin and Nail Support &
Antioxidants
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General Supplements
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| Bioflavonoids* | |
| Selenium* | |
| S O D* | |
| Vitamin B Complex | 100 mg tid |
| Vitamin C | 3,000 - 6,000 mg |
*Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note:
All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
A vegetarian diet, or even a juice fast, may be recommended, in order to assist in cleansing the body (especially the liver).
Homeopathic Remedy
Natrum carbonicum
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Herbal Approaches
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Herbs
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Burdock
Ginkgo biloba
Milk thistle
Red clover
Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Discussion:
Liver cleansing herbs are usually recommended, notably milk thistle, as well as burdock and red clover.
Herbal antixodiants include Ginkgo biloba which also benefits the blood circulation, generally.
Other useful herbs often recommended include: ginseng and licorice.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
Related Health Conditions
Cancer
Melanoma ("Skin cancer")
Nevi
Solar lentigines ("liver spots")
Telangiectias
Vitiligo
Wrinkles
References
Balch, J.F. & Balch, P.A.: Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Second Edition. Avery, New York. 1996.
Bolognia-JL: Dermatologic and cosmetic concerns of the older woman. Clin-Geriatr-Med. 1993 Feb; 9(1): 209-29.
Bolognia-JL: Aging skin. Am-J-Med. 1995 Jan 16; 98(1A): 99S-103S.
Gordon ML & Hecker MS: Care of the skin at midlife: diagnosis of pigmented lesions. Geriatrics, 1997 Aug, 52:8, 56-8, 67-8; quiz 69.
Griffiths-CE et al: Topical tretinoin (retinoic acid) improves melasma. A vehicle-controlled, clinical trial. Br-J-Dermatol. 1993 Oct; 129(4): 415-21.
Jaax S et al., General guidelines for a low-fat diet effective in the management and prevention of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Nutr Cancer, 1997, 27:2, 150-6.
Tercedor J et al., Multivariate analysis of cutaneous markers of aging in chronic hemodialyzed patients. Int J Dermatol, 1995 Aug, 34:8, 546-50.
Torres-JE: Melanoma in situ on facial skin damaged by sunlight. Am-J-Dermatopathol. 1994 Apr; 16(2): 171-4.
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