According to the Mayo Clinic, age spots are a form of hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage and the skin's natural aging process. Also called liver spots, these patches of discoloration develop gradually, typically showing up on the parts of the body most often exposed to the sun, such as the face, shoulders and hands. Though benign, age spots may be a source of cosmetic concern. Non-surgical treatment options include topical lightening creams containing hydroquinone, the only bleaching agent approved by the FDA.
About Hydroquinone
In the United States, hydroquinone is the most commonly used bleaching agent, says Dr. Audrey Kunin in her book "The Dermadoctor's Skinstruction Manual." It works to lighten the skin by inhibiting the production of melanin. With continued use, the treated area will gradually fade. Hydroquinone is available over the counter and by prescription in 2 percent and 4 percent strengths.
Use
Hydroquinone cream is typically applied twice a day to clean, dry skin, says Kunin. However, because dosing and usage can vary by product, always refer to the patient instructions when using the treatment.
Drugs.com instructs users to dab the medication onto the treatment area and rub thoroughly until it is fully absorbed. Though the application method is relatively straightforward, it is important to avoid touching non-discolored areas of skin. Hydroquinone will bleach normal skin as easily as it does abnormal skin, warns Kunin.
Effectiveness
Both prescription and non-prescription hydroquinone treatments can take several months to produce results, says the Mayo Clinic. To obtain the most benefit, it is important to use the product regularly and avoid sun exposure. Hydroquinone increases the skin's sensitivity to UV rays, explains Drugs.com. Furthermore, sunlight triggers melanin production; this can darken existing age spots and impede the lightening process. Accordingly, sunscreen is vital to any age spot treatment regimen.
Side Effects
Hydroquinone side effects include mild irritation, redness and itching. Long-term use may also cause ochronosis, a condition identified by a darkening or bluish discoloration of the treated skin. According to Kunin, ochronosis is rare and tends to affect people of color; however, all users should look out for pigment changes and notify a doctor if any occur.
Alternatives
Hydroquinone is often used to treat age spots and other types of hyperpigmentation; however, it is not the only skin lightener on the market. Other ingredients that fade discoloration include kojic acid, gluconic acid and azelaic acid. These hydroquinone alternatives are not FDA-approved as "bleaching agents," but are marketed as skin lighteners or whiteners, states Kunin.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Age Spots
- "The Dermadoctor Skinstruction Manual"; Audrey Kunin, M.D.; 2005
- Drugs: Hydroquinone
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