How To Remove Age Spots For Men

Age spots, or liver spots, occur when factors such as sun exposure and the skin's natural aging process trigger melanin overproduction. The excess pigment then collects, forming spots of gray, brown and black discoloration on the skin. Age spots tend to appear on the areas of the body that receive the most sun--for instance, the face and hands. Men who spend a lot of time outdoors without using sunscreen or protective clothing may be more at risk for developing sun-induced discoloration than those who protect their skin.

According to the MayoClinic.com, the condition is harmless; however, some men may opt to remove age spots for cosmetic reasons. Prescription and non-prescription fade creams containing hydroquinone, a bleaching agent, or glycolic acid, a chemical exfoliant, are often used to treat age spots at home. Consult a doctor to determine the most suitable treatment.

Step 1

Wash the treatment area using a mild cleanser, then dry completely. If you are treating age spots on your face, be sure to shave first.

Step 2

Apply your choice of hydroquinone or glycolic acid fade cream with clean, dry fingertips. Hydroquinone treatments gradually lighten dark spots by inhibiting pigment production while glycolic acid treats the condition by removing the uppermost layer of skin. This exfoliating action helps peel away superficial discoloration and encourages cell turnover for a healthier, smoother complexion.

Step 3

Wash your hands thoroughly. During the day, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen to the treated area, as well as to any other part of the body that gets sun. If you are bald, do not forget your scalp. Consistent use of sunscreen, hats and other protective clothing will stop existing age spots from darkening and new ones from forming.

Tips and Warnings

Hydroquinone and glycolic acid fade creams are typically used on a twice daily basis--once in the morning and once at night. However, the exact method of application depends on the product, so read the instructions carefully. For example, while glycolic acid can be used over broad treatment areas, hydroquinone should only be applied to discolored patches of skin. This is because hydroquinone bleaches indiscriminately; application outside of discolored areas will cause normally pigmented skin to lighten, too, says Dr. Audrey Kunin in her book "The Dermadoctor Skinstruction Manual." Treatment times and effectiveness may vary depending on the ingredient, the concentration of the product and the severity of the condition. However, at-home age spot removal tends to be a slow process. It can take months for either treatment to have an effect, according to Kunin and the MayoClinic.com. Two percent hydroquinone is sold over-the-counter, while 4 percent concentrations are available by prescription. Over-the-counter glycolic acid treatments typically contain 5 percent to 10 percent glycolic acid; higher concentrations are available by prescription.
Side effects of hydroquinone and glycolic acid fade creams include mild, temporary skin irritation and redness. Discontinue the treatment if these symptoms become severe. Fade creams containing hydroquinone and glycolic acid cause sun sensitivity. During treatment, it is important to wear sunscreen during the day and limit your sun exposure to avoid damaging your skin.