How to reduce age spots: Causes, treatment, and prevention

While we can’t stop time, we can take steps to keep our skin looking healthy and vibrant. One common skin concern that pops up with age is age spots – those dark patches that tend to appear after years of sun exposure.

Age spots, also known as sunspots, liver spots and solar lentigines, are darkened areas of skin that typically appear on parts of the body that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.

These skin patches have nothing to do with your liver,” explains the Cleveland Clinic, “except for having a similar color, which may be tan to dark brown.”

Instead, the cause of these unwanted spots is a direct result of prolonged exposure to UV rays, which cause melanin to clump together in certain areas of the skin.

While they’re more common after age 50, younger people who’ve had significant sun exposure can also develop them.

Age spots aren’t harmful, but they can sometimes be mistaken for more serious conditions like melanoma (skin cancer). That’s why prevention and early detection are key!

Common causes

Sun exposure: The number one cause of age spots is long-term sun exposure. The more time you spend outdoors without sun protection, the higher your risk of developing these darkened areas.

Tanning beds and lamps: Artificial UV exposure, such as tanning beds and sun lamps, can accelerate melanin production, leading to the formation of age spots over time.

Skin type and genetics: People with fairer skin are more prone to developing age spots because they have less melanin to begin with. Additionally, genetics can play a role in how your skin responds to UV exposure.

Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy or menopause, can sometimes lead to increased pigmentation, making some people more susceptible to developing age spots.

Since excessive UV exposure can also increase the risk of skin cancer, protecting your skin is essential—not just for cosmetic reasons, but for your overall health!

Sunspots or cancer?

Age spots are usually harmless but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on any changes in your skin. If you notice a spot that looks unusually dark or black, has irregular or jagged borders, or starts to change in size, shape, or color, it’s worth getting it checked out.

Any itching, bleeding, or discomfort should also be a red flag. While most age spots are nothing to worry about, a quick visit to a dermatologist can provide peace of mind and help catch any potential concerns early.

Taking the time to monitor your skin can make all the difference in keeping it healthy and protected.

Treatment options

Age spots don’t require any treatment, but if they bother you, there are ways to reduce their appearance. Whether you want to lighten them or remove them altogether, there are several cosmetic treatments that can help. The key is to work with a skilled, licensed dermatologist who can guide you through the best options for your skin.

If you want to fade or remove age spots, cosmetic treatments include:

Chemical peels: A dermatologist applies a chemical solution to remove the top layers of skin, revealing fresher, less pigmented skin underneath. Peels come in different strengths, so consult a professional to find the right one for you.

Dermabrasion: Think of this as exfoliation on steroids. A high-speed tool removes the outer layers of skin, helping to smooth out pigmentation and improve skin texture.

Laser resurfacing: Lasers target excess melanin, breaking it down and promoting new skin growth. This can be an effective, long-term solution for stubborn age spots.

Cryotherapy: A quick freeze with liquid nitrogen can destroy excess pigment, causing the spot to fade over time.

Lightening creams: Prescription creams containing hydroquinone or retinoids can gradually fade age spots with consistent use. Just be sure to pair them with sunscreen, as they can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.

Please note: Natural remedies – lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, and green tea – do contain brightening properties, but they won’t produce the same dramatic results as professional treatments.

Prevention

While there are plenty of treatments available to fade age spots, they can be pricey. The good news? Prevention is not only more affordable but also better for your skin’s overall health.

The Cleveland Clinic offers tips on protecting yourself from UV light and sun damage:

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day and reapply every two hours.
Avoid the sun from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., when its rays are the most intense.
Refrain from using tanning beds under any circumstances.
Wear protective clothing such as a broad-brimmed hat, long sleeves or pants.

Simple changes like these can go a long way in keeping your skin healthy, youthful, and free of unnecessary sun damage.

Remember that aging is a privilege – not a problem to solve. Whether you embrace your sunspots or choose to lighten them, the goal is healthy, radiant skin.

Please share this story with your friends so they also know how to prevent, or reduce the appearance, of age spots!