Facial age spots are more common in women than men. They are often related to sun exposure and exposure to female hormones. Age spots are also known as melasma or the mask of pregnancy, and can occur anywhere. They are most common on the face, on the cheeks, forehead and across the nose. Using a combination of over the counter products is often enough to fade age spots, but in some cases the age spots penetrate deeply enough into the skin that they need professional treatment. A healthcare provider can treat melasma with a laser peel, dermabrasion or a chemical peel. All of these are effective outpatient procedures.
Step 1
Apply moisturizer containing kojiic acid, glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acid two times a day. These products work by speeding up exfoliation, which removes the layers of over-pigmented skin that make up age spots.
Step 2
Apply a cream containing hydroquinone daily. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent. To prevent uneven skin tone, apply hydroquinone directly to age spots.
Step 3
Wear sunscreen daily. Even if it is overcast or you will be outside for only a few minutes, wear a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays.
Step 4
Ask your doctor about more aggressive treatment. Your healthcare provider can give you prescription strength hydroquinone cream, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. He may also prescribe corticosteroids and tretinoin cream to use with the hydroquinone cream.
Tips and Warnings
- Begin using moisturizers containing acid ingredients gradually. Initially, apply once every two to three days. Gradually increase the frequency of application until you are applying the product twice a day. This minimizes the likelihood of developing skin irritation. Signs of irritation include redness, itching and peeling skin.
Things You'll Need
- Acid-containing moisturizer
- Hydroquinone cream
- Sunscreen
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