Dermatologists estimate that 63% of age spots are caused by the sun and 13% by ageing. Age spots affect 1 in 3 women over 40 and over 90% of over-50s.

Younger women also experience hyperpigmentation such as melasma, commonly known as "the mask of pregnancy", reactions to medicines or oral contraceptives.

A doctor can suggest various ways of treating them.
After examining the type of pigmentation and the cause, a doctor may suggest creams, chemical treatment, or laser therapy, and will tell you whether treatment can be carried out or not.