Pigmentation is basically the color of your skin. Often, pigment can be darker and even patchy in some places and lighter in others. Dark spots are primarily caused by exposure to the sun, although genetics and aging also play a role, according to the Mayo Clinic. Lighter spots are rarer and are sometimes caused by trauma to the skin or an inflammatory condition.
Step 1
Protect your skin from the sun to keep age spots from becoming darker and additional spots from forming. Use sunscreen every day, even in cloudy weather. Apply at least 30 minutes before going outside and reapply if you sweat a lot. Avoid the sun as much as possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Step 2
Try bleaching creams containing hydroquinone. Although some are available over the counter, your doctor can prescribe a stronger hydroquinone for quicker and better results. Ask your dermatologist about combining hydroquinone with retinoids to improve the overall texture and look of your skin. Effects are subtle with bleaching creams, and it might take months before you notice an improvement.
Step 3
Talk to your dermatologist about the advisability of getting a peel or microdermabrasion. These treatments remove the upper layer of the skin and lessen age spots. Medium-depth chemical peels can require some healing time.
Step 4
Ask your dermatologist about laser therapy. Different forms of laser therapy, including IPL photofacial and laser resurfacing, are used to treat pigmentation problems. Some are more painful and require longer recovery time, so talk to your doctor about your options beforehand. After a treatment of IPL, you can go back to work right away. Other lasers might require a few days for redness and inflammation to subside.
Things You'll Need
- Sunscreen
- Bleaching creams
- Retinoid creams
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