Treatment For Age Spots & Blotches

Age spots and blotches are forms of hyperpigmentation, a typically harmless dermatological condition. The development of this discoloration is often linked to excess sun exposure. The skin's natural aging process may also contribute, says the Mayo Clinic. Though age spots do not cause physical harm, they can be damaging to the self-esteem. Fortunately, with treatment options that range from non-prescription fade creams to superficial chemical peels, age spots do not have to be permanent.

Basics

Age spots develop when the skin's pigment producing cells---called melanocytes---create too much melanin. This excess pigment can then clump together over time, slowly forming dark blotches in the base of the epidermis. According to the Mayo Clinic, this means that in order to fade or remove age spots, treatments must first penetrate the surface layer of skin.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that exfoliates to remove superficial imperfections such as age spots. There are two types of microdermabrasion. The first uses a specialized tool to spray the skin with tiny crystals, while the second exfoliates using a diamond- or sandpaper-tipped applicator. Both techniques must be performed by a professional, but require little to no downtime. According to the Cleveland Clinic website, the treatment area may be irritated or sore immediately following the procedure; however, these effects are only temporary. Most patients require five to 12 microdermabrasion sessions to see results.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels treat age spots by using acid to remove the top layer of skin. One of the most commonly used peeling agents is glycolic acid. Due to its mild nature, glycolic acid works slowly and is typically administered six times over a few months to achieve results, according to the Johns Hopkins Cosmetic Center website.

On the plus side, glycolic acid peels produce very few side effects outside of mild, temporary irritation, redness and sun sensitivity. Other than wearing sunscreen, patients do not usually have to alter their daily routines. In fact, most patients can return to normal activities right after the procedure.

Fade Creams

Fade creams are available over-the-counter and by prescription in numerous formulations. Dr. Audrey Kunin, author of "The Dermadoctor Skinstruction Manual," says hydroquinone is the most common skin-bleaching agent in the United States. Typically applied two times a day, the treatment bleaches age spots over a period of several months. It works by blocking melanin production, which slowly lightens dark spots to match the neighboring skin.

Hydroquinone is the only FDA-approved bleaching agent, says Kunin. However, it is not without its risks. Hydroquinone can cause irritation and ochronosis, a rare skin condition in which the treated area turns bluish black. Patients who are unable to use hydroquinone can try other lightening agents such as over-the-counter glycolic acid lotion and kojic acid, a non-prescription melanin blocker.

Considerations

Treating age spots and blotches can be time-consuming and expensive, depending on the procedure. In fact, the Mayo Clinic website warns that "because age spot treatments are considered cosmetic, your insurance may not pay for it." In order to determine the most effective treatment and avoid wasting time and money, it is important to consult a doctor.