Age spots, also known as liver spots, are flat non-cancerous blemishes that appear after prolonged sun exposure. They typically have a gray, brown or black color and usually pop up on the arms, face and hands. You can visit a dermatologist to receive recommendations for over-the-counter or prescription-strength creams to remove age spots.
Function
Topical retinoid creams are typically used in conjunction with lightening creams to get rid of age spots. The retinoid works by blocking the production of melanin, the pigment found in liver spots. It can also act as a peeling agent. Lightening creams bleach the color out of the age spot to match the surrounding skin. Hydroquinone is a type of lightening cream prescribed by doctors to treat age spots.
Types
The Mayo Clinic states that certain over-the-counter creams can be effective on age spots. It is recommended that you choose versions with one of the following active ingredients: glycolic acid, hydroquinone, kojic acid or deoxyarbutin. These ingredients penetrate the epidermis after regular and ongoing applications to remove the excess pigment causing the age spot to appear.
Time Frame
It may take several weeks to months for a lightening cream to prove effective at removing an age spot. It needs to penetrate the layers of the skin to reach the excess pigment. The darker the color of the age spot, the longer it will take to fade. According to the Derma Network website, over-the-counter creams may take months to work and are not always effective. Prescription creams are usually more effective. The New York Times states that retinoid cream can noticeably fade age spots in as little as one month. Most manufacturer;s instructions note that the age spot fade cream be applied twice a day to clean and dry skin.
Considerations
When you have applied a bleaching cream, you should first wait for the cream to completely dry before dressing. The ingredients in the bleaching cream may discolor clothing pieces. After application, thoroughly wash your hands to remove any residue to prevent discoloration in other areas of the skin.
Effects
There are side effects associated with the use of creams to treat age spots. Retinoids may cause sun sensitivity, so it is recommended that you wear sunscreen while outdoors. Due to potential skin discoloration, bleaching creams are typically only recommended for individuals with fair skin tones. Other side effects include skin irritation, redness and scaling.
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