Age spots around the eyes: what to know

Typical age spots are flat, clearly outlined tan-to-brown patches that develop after cumulative ultraviolet exposure. Similar-looking marks can have other causes, and eyelid skin is thin and close to the eye, so products or procedures suitable elsewhere on the face may be inappropriate here.

Solar lentigines, commonly called age spots or sun spots, tend to remain flat and feel like the surrounding skin. Freckles, post-inflammatory pigmentation, melasma and some raised growths can resemble them. A dermatologist can examine the surface, border, colour pattern and history rather than relying on colour alone.

Pigment close to the lash line deserves particular care because irritation, tearing and eye exposure affect what can be used. A new mark is not automatically dangerous, but a confident diagnosis should come before cosmetic removal.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed facial skin, add UV-protective sunglasses and a brimmed hat, and avoid rubbing the eye area. Choose a sunscreen formulated for the face if ordinary products sting, keeping it out of the eyes.

Do not apply strong acids, bleaching mixtures or wart removers near the eyelids. After confirming the diagnosis, a dermatologist may discuss a carefully selected topical product, peel, light-based treatment, laser or lesion-directed procedure. Suitability depends on the exact location, skin tone and tendency to develop darker or lighter marks after inflammation.

Arrange a dermatology review if a spot is new and persistent, grows, develops an irregular border, contains several colours, becomes raised, repeatedly crusts, bleeds, itches or feels sore. Seek prompt care for eyelid swelling, eye pain, altered vision or a lesion that interferes with opening the eye.

Do not attempt home removal of an uncertain or changing lesion. Treatment can alter its appearance and delay an accurate diagnosis.

Ask what diagnosis fits the mark, whether examination alone is sufficient, which options are safe at its distance from the eye, and what pigment changes or eye-protection measures are relevant to the proposed treatment.