If you have discoloration on your arms, it could be caused by liver spots, also known as age spots. Liver spots are flat markings of a gray, black or brown color. The non-cancerous blemishes are caused by sun exposure and are most common in individuals older than 40. Speak to your doctor about any type of discoloration on the arms in order to rule out any other skin conditions.
Step 1
Choose an over-the-counter skin lightening cream. The Mayo Clinic suggests types that contain kojic acid, glycolic acid, hydroquinone or deoxyarbutin as the active ingredient.
Step 2
Clean the area of the arms that contains the discoloration. Dry the skin before applying the treatment product. Apply the skin lightening cream in an even and thin layer directly on the discolored area.
Step 3
Wait for the cream to dry. Put on any clothing or other skin care products after the cream has dried. Repeat application twice a day. According to the Mayo Clinic, you may need to use the product for several weeks to months before you notice a change in the color of the skin.
Step 4
Speak to a dermatologist if home treatment of the discoloration is not successful. The dermatologist may give you a prescription-strength fade cream to use on the discoloration. Procedures such as laser therapy, cryotherapy and dermabrasion also are performed to get rid of liver spots. During laser therapy, concentrated energy is used to destroy the extra pigment in the skin. For cryotherapy, liquid nitrogen is applied to the age spot to destroy the pigment. When you undergo dermabrasion, the skin is sanded down with a rotating brush. The top layer of skin is removed and new growth occurs. Multiple sessions of these procedures may be needed to correct the discoloration.
Things You'll Need
- Skin lightening cream
Member Comments