Age Spots: Causes, Prevention & 4 Effective Treatments – Plum

What are age spots?

National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) defines age spots on the skin as “light brown to black pigmented lesions of various sizes that typically develop in chronically sun-exposed skin”.

Medically known as ‘solar lentigines and lentigo senilis’, age spots are easily identifiable through visual inspection.”

Though primarily affecting people above 50 years, such spots can also appear on younger skin, usually due to prolonged exposure to sunlight.

What causes age spots?

When it comes to treating age spots, active ingredients have always proven to be effective. Let’s have a look at some of the active ingredients that you can count on:

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid, also known as Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) has been known to be highly effective in treating hyperpigmentation. It helps correct age spots, dullness, and hyperpigmentation on the skin, giving you healthy, even-toned skin.

Retinol (Vitamin A)

Retinol increases the skin cell units, also called Proliferation. It unclogs the pores and further boosts collagen production in the skin. A speedy growth of new healthy skin can help disappear age spots. Retinol also helps improve the skin texture, which slows the aging process. Including this powerhouse in your nighttime skincare routine can help slow down the signs of aging.

However, after using Retinol, follow up with a nourishing moisturizer and sunscreen the next morning.

Vitamin C

Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin C is an excellent ingredient to remove age spots. Vitamin C inhibits melanin production, a function that may lighten up dark spots. Vitamin C also fights dullness, revealing a glowing complexion. A vitamin C serum applied regularly will help reduce the visibility of age spots on the skin.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide delivers reliable results against age spots, acne marks, and blemishes on the skin. It inhibits melanin transfer onto the surface of the skin while enhancing the elasticity for youthful-looking skin. Niacinamide serum can also act as a hydrating agent.

Alpha Arbutin

Alpha Arbutin is one of the mild, natural skin-brightening ingredients, making it an easy choice for those with sensitive skin. Found in many skincare products, including alpha arbutin serum, it inhibits melanin production and is quite potent for removing hyperpigmentation, aiding in age spots.

Note: You must consider your skin type while using active ingredients. A patch test on the inner side of your arm is most important.

Home remedies for age spots

Lemon Juice - Lemon juice's acidity possesses the power to exfoliate skin and treat spots. Since it can be harsh, avoid applying it directly on your skin and always patch test before using it on your face.
Aloe Vera - Aloe vera’s natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe sunburned and irritated skin while slowly fading the dark spots.
Apple Cider Vinegar - Apple cider vinegar, also widely known as the mild exfoliant, can help reduce the appearance of age spots by drying them out. However, ACV can irritate the skin, so it should be pre-diluted with water in equal parts before applying.

Please note that these remedies have not been scientifically tested and do not guarantee effective results,

Therefore, scientifically formulated solutions are always better to be used on your skin.

How to prevent age spots?

While fading and removing age spots can take time, it's best to adopt practices that can prevent them in the first place.

Sun Protection

Since photodamage is one of the leading causes of age spots, using sunscreens is one of the best ways to prevent age spots on the skin.

Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day with at least SPF 35, even indoors.

Apply it at least 15-20 minutes before stepping out in the sun. Cover your face and neck generously with sunscreen and reapply after 3-4 hours.

Consistent Skincare

Having and following minimalistic but dedicated skincare twice daily goes a long way in treating varied skincare issues, including age spots. So, don't skip your skincare, even on the craziest days. Instead, use multi-tasking products if you’re short on time or on the go!

Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations

A nourishing diet, adequate water, and intake of antioxidants can help the skin defend itself against oxidative stress and support its regenerative capacity. This further helps to hydrate your skin, making it plump and radiant. Ensure to include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet to replenish your skin's lost nutrients. Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration in your body.

Staying away from harmful addictions.

Smoking and drinking are harmful to your health. Needless to say, these habits also affect your skin negatively. Quit these harmful addictions for a healthier body and better skin.

FAQs

How do I get rid of an age spot?

By using active ingredients like vitamin C, glycolic acid, and alpha arbutin in your skincare consistently, you can effectively get rid of age spots.

Why am I suddenly getting age spots?

If you have just crossed 50, it is quite natural for age spots to make an appearance on your skin. But if not, age spots could be a result of prolonged sun exposure, medications, hormonal changes, or dietary deficiency.