Is it freckles, liver stains and mother marks? Doctor explains the crucial differences

The mirror stares back with something new. A dark spot in the middle of the nose back. Has it always been there? And what about the flat shade on the shoulder – is it an old friend or an unwanted neo pockets?

When the skin begins to feel like a living map, it is tempting to consult both Google and old myths about liver spots.

But calm on – Videnskap.dk has set system in the spots.

There is a difference between freckles, liver stains and mother marks, although they sometimes behave as species companions.

And while some are innocent like a child’s hand, others can hide on a seriousness one should not ignore.

Freckles

The classic summer spots have a fancy name in the medical world – Ephelides – but they are neither mysterious nor dangerous.

• Typically comes in people with light skin and bright or red hair.

• Becomes clearer when the sun hits the skin, and often disappears when the UV goes into hi.

• Are small, flat and light brown – and completely harmless.

• Can be dimmed with sunscreen and clothing, but is also genetically conditioned.

• However, indicates that you have an increased risk of developing skin cancer – so they are a bit like a friendly reminder of using sun hat.

Liver stains

Despite the name, they have nothing to do with the liver. In return, they have everything to do with the sun.

• Also called Solar Lentigo – as in « Sun Stain ».

• Typically, appear in the face, hands and shoulders where the sun has been partying for years.

• Larger than freckles, flat and even brown – sometimes the size of a coin.

• Does not fade with age that freckles do – on the contrary, they can darken.

• Not dangerous in itself, but must be monitored – as certain types of skin cancer can look like liver spots at first.

• Is often removed for cosmetic reasons with laser or peeling – but only for the sake of the appearance.