How To Get Rid Of Brown Spots On The Face From Sun

When the skin on your face is exposed to the sun, the cells produce pigment that can lead to brown spots, often called hyperpigmentation, liver spots or age spots. Continued development of these spots can leave your skin looking mottled and discolored. Thankfully, several over-the-counter skin-care treatments can help you fade these brown spots to boost your skin's natural glow and refine your complexion for a clearer, more even-toned look.

Step 1

Get out of the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are at their strongest. If you must go into the sun, the American Academy of Dermatology advises wearing a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, smoothing it on 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplying every two hours.

Step 2

Exfoliate your skin twice a week or more often, recommends Paula Begoun, author and creator of the Paula's Choice skin-care line. You can use an abrasive scrub or a product made with acids, such as beta hydroxy acid or alpha hydroxy acids. These remove the darkened cells and help to accelerate the lightening process.

Step 3

Apply a skin-bleaching cream formulated with hydroquinone. This chemical is the "most effective ingredient" for reducing age spots, according to Begoun. You may also use hydroquinone alternatives, such as azelaic acid in a concentration of 15 percent, vitamin A or arbutin. Apply it as a spot treatment or on your entire face for overall brightening.

Step 4

Smooth on a color-correction foundation to camouflage the brown spots while waiting for your skin-care products to treat the underlying problem, recommends the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Tips and Warnings

Begoun recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen formulated with UVA-protecting ingredients such as avobenzone, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Check your sunscreen's label to see if it contains these beneficial ingredients.