Age spots appear when the skin has been exposed to the sun for prolonged periods of time. Although dermatological treatments, such as laser therapy and dermabrasion, are available to remove age spots, there are also several types of over-the-counter and prescription topical creams that can be used to fade the blemishes.
How Age Spots Form
The ultraviolet light in the rays of the sun speeds up the production of the pigment melanin. The excess melanin clumps together and the skin takes on a brown or blackened appearance. The pigmented section of the skin is referred to as an age spot or liver spot. UV lamps and tanning beds can also cause age spots to appear, according to the Mayo Clinic. Aging and genetics also contribute to their formation.
Over-the-Counter Creams
Over-the-counter bleaching creams can get rid of age spots as long as the products are used on a regular basis. Since the ingredients must penetrate the layers of the skin, it may take several weeks before you notice any results. The Mayo Clinic recommends creams that contain one of the following ingredients: glycolic acid, deoxyarbutin, kojic acid or hydroquinone.
Prescription Brands
If an over-the-counter version is not effective, the book "Age Erasers for Women" recommends cream brands that contain prescription strength amounts of hydroquinone. These creams, including Melanex and Eldoquin, are used for larger age spots and ones that have not gone away with over-the-counter products.
Retinoid and Steroid Creams
A topical retinoid cream is used not only for wrinkles and acne, but to erase age spots as well. A topical retinoid like tretinoin removes the top layers of the skin to fade the discoloration. In most cases, your doctor recommends this prescription cream in conjunction with a bleaching cream. Topical steroid creams are sometimes prescribed for patients with age spots. Steroid creams have anti-inflammatory properties.
Sunscreen
An effective prevention method for age spots is applying sunscreen on a daily basis. When you wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, you prevent new age spots from appearing on the skin. Apply sunscreen to all areas of exposed skin approximately 15 minutes prior to going out in the sun. Reapply the sunscreen every hour while outdoors. Keep in mind that when you do use creams to get rid of age spots, your doctor is likely to recommend sunscreen since a common side effect is sun sensitivity.
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