What should you know about old age spots on legs?

Sun spots can appear on the lower legs or thighs where skin has had repeated exposure. They are generally flat and tan to brown, but colour can vary with natural skin tone and surrounding pigmentation. A dark patch on a leg can also follow inflammation, an injury, or another skin condition, so the label age spot is not a diagnosis. A clinician considers the mark's border, surface, symptoms, and whether nearby spots look different.

Cover exposed legs when practical and apply sunscreen to uncovered skin. Avoid scratching, harsh scrubbing, and unverified lightening products. If a clinician confirms a sun spot and you want it treated, options can include chemical peel, IPL photofacial, picosecond laser treatment, or cryotherapy. Suitability depends on the lesion, skin tone, and healing history. You can also read about [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) and [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/).

Seek a skin assessment for a spot that grows, changes shape or colour, develops an irregular edge, becomes raised, bleeds, crusts, hurts, or fails to heal. Get prompt care for a persistent sore or repeated bleeding. Do not schedule pigment treatment until a changing mark has been assessed.

Ask whether the mark fits a sun spot, whether it needs dermoscopy, and which option is appropriate for leg skin. Ask how to protect the treated area from sun and friction and when to return if it changes.