Age spots, sometimes called liver spots, occur as a result of excessive exposure to the sun. Skin pigment congregates in a small area to protect against ultraviolet rays, which causes the flat, brown spots to appear. Age spots appear most commonly in adults over the age of 40, according to MayoClinic.com, although they can affect younger individuals who spend too much time in the sun. Age spots do not require medical treatment, but they may be lightened or removed for cosmetic purposes. Over-the-counter skin bleaching products are often used, but several home remedies produce similar results if used consistently.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is mildly acidic and commonly used in natural cosmetics for its gentle bleaching properties. According to the Reader's Digest Association in the book "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems," lemon juice may be strong enough to slough away the outer, damaged layer of skin, which helps fade age spots by revealing the fresh skin beneath. Dab the juice of a fresh lemon over age spots at least twice daily for the best results. It may take several weeks before you notice results.
Honey and Yogurt
Honey and yogurt, both natural bleaching agents, combine to create an effective home remedy for age spots. Bill Gottlieb, author of " Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies," recommends applying a combination of 1 tsp. plain yogurt and 1 tsp. honey directly to age spots at least once a day. Allow the mixture to remain for 30 minutes, or until completely dry, and rinse with cool water. Repeat until the desired results are achieved, which may take a few weeks. Plain yogurt, which contains skin-lightening lactic acid, may be used alone for fading age spots, although the addition of honey boosts its natural bleaching power.
Papaya
The latex, or fleshy side of a papaya skin may help fade age spots, according to "Skin Saver Remedies" by Juta Stepanovs. Papaya contains enzymes that accelerate the removal of dead skin cells and promote the growth of new cells in their place. Over time, this process can fade age spots significantly, but it doesn't happen overnight. For the best results, peel a ripe papaya and place the fleshy side directly onto your age spots. Allow it to remain in place for 15 to 20 minutes, and rinse with warm water. Repeat daily as needed.
Pineapple Juice
Similar to papaya, pineapple juice also contains a protein-digesting enzyme known as bromelain, which removes older layers of skin and replaces them with fresh, new layers. With time, this results in a more even skin tone and less noticeable age spots. In the book "Folk Remedies that Work," Joan and Lydia Wilen suggest dipping a cotton ball in fresh pineapple juice, and applying directly to age spots. Allow the juice to remain for 20 minutes before rinsing with tepid water. Repeat daily and you may see results in as little as a week.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Age Spots (Liver Spots)
- "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems"; Reader's Digest; 2004
- "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "Skin Saver Remedies"; Juta Stepanovs; 1999
- "Folk Remedies That Work"; Joan Wilen, Lydia Wilen; 1996
Member Comments