Whether you call them liver spots or sun spots, age spots "are really sun-induced freckles occurring commonly on backs of hands, arms and face," according to Dr. Robert E. Clark, director of the Dermatological Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology Unit at Duke University Medical Center. Age spots take years to form and may take long to fade. Preventive measures including using sunscreen throughout the year reduce the possibility of developing age spots, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. If you plan to use natural fading remedies, talk with your health care provider about the safety of the remedies you choose.
Castor Oil
You can use castor oil, once a popular laxative, as a skin softening and lightening agent. The ancient Egyptian medical text, the Ebers Papyrus, compiled around 1,550 B.C., mentions medicinal use. To use castor oil to treat age spots, rub warmed oil directly onto the skin morning and night. As with any natural remedy, using castor oil may produce side effects so speak to your doctor before trying it, especially if you are nursing or pregnant.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains trace minerals--including potassium, calcium and sodium--vital to the body's good health. You can use apple cider vinegar to treat age spots, according to HomeRemediesWeb.com. Mix apple cider with onion juice in equal parts, and dab directly onto the skin using cotton balls. Leave the mixture on for a minimum of 30 minutes. Repeat as often as possible until spots begin to fade. HomeRemediesWeb.com also suggests drinking apple cider vinegar twice a day--3 tbsp. in a full glass of hot or cold water. Dilution will lessen the effect of the vinegar's acidity on tooth enamel.
Aloe Vera
You probably know aloe vera as a soothing balm for burned skin. SkinCareGuide.com recommends cutting an aloe vera leaf and rubbing fresh aloe vera gel on age spots twice a day. You can also mix aloe vera juice with cucumber or lemon juice may help fade age spots. Topical use of aloe vera produces no known side effects. While "the effectiveness of aloe has not been proved beyond doubt, it will not hurt to try it," according to SkinCareGuide.com.
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