According to MayoClinic.com, age spots appear most frequently in adults over the age of 40, although anyone can develop them. Age spots are a direct result of sun exposure, and because older adults have spent more time in the sun, they suffer from the condition more often than younger people. Strictly considered a cosmetic problem, though they may look like cancerous growths, age spots do not typically require treatment. Home remedies may help get rid of age spots on the hands, or at least diminish their appearance.
Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil contains mild bleaching properties that may help get rid of age spots on the hands, according to Bill Gottlieb, author of "Alternative Cures." For the best results, combine two or three drops of lemon essential oil with 1 tsp. vegetable carrier oil such as olive, almond or safflower. Apply the mixture directly to your age spots twice a day and you should notice results within a few weeks.
Citrus and Honey
Lemon juice, as with lemon essential oil, is a mild natural bleach that can help reduce the appearance of age spots on the hands. In her book "Rinnovation," Lisa Rinna recommends combining lemon juice with other natural bleaching agents such as honey and yogurt to make an effective home remedy. Mix the juice from one lemon, the juice of one lime, 2 tbsp. honey and 2 oz. plain yogurt in a small bowl. Rub the mixture into your hands two or three times daily to even skin tone and reduce brown spots.
Aloe Vera Gel
Fresh aloe vera gel may help get rid of age spots on the hands, according to Juta Stepanovs in her book "Skin Saver Recipes." Aloe contains compounds that gently slough away the top layer of dead skin and reveal the fresh layer beneath.
Over time, usually one to three months, age spots will diminish if you use the treatment regularly. Rub fresh aloe gel directly over the affected areas once or twice a day for the best results. If you don't have an aloe vera plant, you can purchase commercial aloe gel, but make sure it's 100 percent pure.
Onion Juice
In her book "Home Remedies," Rekha Deshpandey suggests treating age spots on the hands using onion juice. The acid in onion juice gradually lightens pigment over time when it is used consistently. Rub a piece of sliced red onion over the spots once or twice daily. For an added boost, combine 1 part onion juice with 2 parts grated ginger root and massage into age spots daily. Allow the mixture to remain for at least five minutes before rinsing.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Age Spots
- "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "Rinnavation: Getting Your Best Life Ever"; Lisa Rinna, Maureen O'Neal; 2009
- "Skin Saver Remedies"; Juta Stepanovs:1999
- "Home Remedies"; Rekha Deshpandey; 2008
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