Dark spots develop only after decades of sun exposure, according to a 2010 physician education publication of the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD. The spots are called age spots, liver spots and melasma, dubbed "the mask of pregnancy" because they often appear after childbirth sensitizes a mother's skin, though some males also have melasma. Many home remedies take advantage of healing qualities in fruits, vegetables and herbs that are easily available and safe.
Grape Seed and Raspberries
You can take an oral preparation, as an extract or pill, which contains active ingredients found in grape seeds. The most potent factor is a substance called proanthocyanidin. According to Dr. Ray Sahelian, author of the books "Mind Boosters" and "The Stevia Cookbook," a 2004 Japanese study published in "Phytotherapy Research" documented grape seed extract as particularly effective in lightening melasma blemishes. No side effects were noted. Dr Sahelian also reported that a compound known as ellagic acid, which can be extracted from raspberries, also lightens dark spots. He cites a 2008 study in the Journal of Dermatology in which a topical gel containing ellagic acid--also found in pomegranates, a number of berries and walnuts and pecans--reduced the amount of the dark pigment, or melanin, in skin spots.
Citrus Fruit
Various blends of citrus juice or whole fruit slices are suggested by skin care specialists at Purefect-Your-Skin. These preparations have been shown to lighten or eliminate dark skin spots. Apply a lemon or lime slice directly to spots, or squeeze the juice onto your skin. Apply the fruit or juice twice a day for five minutes and rinse thoroughly. Orange and lime juices, mixed with double the volume of apple cider vinegar, can also be applied. Specialists at Free Beauty Tips say these citrus applications can irritate and dry your skin. Follow applications with skin moisturizing cream after each rinse.
Chinese Herbs
Ancient Chinese herbs have been known to lighten dark spots. Cosmetologists practicing with Purefect-Your-Skin prescribe remedies based on the herb-lore of traditional Chinese medical practitioners. Make your own home remedy with gensing and gotu-kola. Produce a cream by finely grinding 1/8 tsp. ginseng root with 1/8 tsp. Gotu-Kola, moistened with enough freshly brewed ginseng tea to make a smooth paste. Apply this to your spots for 15 minutes, then rinse with water. Use twice a day until you achieve the desired lightening.
Sunscreen
The AAD warns that some dark skin spots can become skin cancer. According to a June 2010 MedlinePlus report, protection is the simplest home remedy. Use sun-blocking creams with a protection factor, or SPF, of 30. This is also good protection for dark spots while you treat them. Apply lotion at least 30 minutes before direct sun exposure. Reapply after swimming and sweating. Apply a full 1-oz. portion for full-body exposure, or a proportionally thick application for exposure of smaller skin surfaces. Also, a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts or blouses and slacks make effective sun shades.
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