Much like reading glasses and wrinkles, age spots are a sign you're getting older. These flat, brown spots that appear on the skin are sometimes called liver spots, though they have nothing to do with your liver. Medline Plus says the spots are nothing more than a change in skin color that may be brought on by aging, sun exposure or other unknown causes. They're harmless, but there are a number of cosmetic treatments available if you don't like the look.
Avoid the Sun
The AntiAging Information website says the best natural remedy for age spots is to protect your skin from the sun, since most of the spots appear in areas that have had the most sun exposure. Spots often appear on the face, back of the hands, forearms and shoulders. MayoClinic.com says you can help prevent age spots by avoiding the sun and using sunscreen. Any age spots that have an irregular look should be examined by a doctor. A biopsy may be ordered to make sure the spot is not skin cancer.
Bleaching Creams
Bleaching creams and lightening agents are available over-the-counter and by prescription to slowly reduce the appearance of age spots. The Mother Nature guide to natural products recommends creams with hydroquinone. It says this safe "lightening agent" can be found in products such as Porcelana and Esoterica. MayoClinic.com says a doctor may recommend the use of a prescription bleaching cream along with mild steroids to gradually fade the spots over a period of several months.
Home Remedies Web and AntiAging Information say there is anecdotal evidence that applying juice from acidic fruits to the brown spots will fade them over time. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar are among the natural treatments that have been around for years.
Cryotherapy
If you want to get rid of age spots without any creams or acids, consider freezing them away. Doctors using cryotherapy apply liquid nitrogen or some other freezing agent to the spot to destroy the extra pigment in the skin. MayoClinic.com says the skin appears lighter as the area heals. It says the procedure is effective, but there's a slight risk of discoloration or permanent scarring.
Dermabrasion
You can actually scrub those spots away, too. MayoClinic.com says dermabrasion is a technique used by doctors. It involves a rapidly rotating brush sanding down the surface layer of the skin. There may be some redness or a temporary scab, but a new layer of skin will grow back in its place.
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