As your skin ages, melanin pigments in the skin can darken in clumps, creating age spots on the face. Age spots --- also known as liver spots or solar lentigines --- can vary in size, according to the Mayo Clinic. Because age spots can be a cosmetic concern, creams are available to reduce the size of age spots.
Causes
While the natural progression of aging can contribute to the development of age spots, other causes can accelerate their formation and color, according to the Mayo Clinic. One example is sun exposure. Excess sun exposure accelerates melanin production in the skin, causing age spots to develop more quickly. Tanning beds and tanning lamps can have a similar effect. Taking certain medications, such as tetracycline, diuretics and antipsychotic medicines also can contribute to the development of age spots.
Bleaching Creams
Hydroquinone is one of the most common ingredients in bleaching creams applied to the face, according to Derma Network. Over-the-counter formulations contain up to 2 percent hydroquinone. These creams may be labeled as "fade creams," according to "Age Erasers for Women." However, prescription creams contain stronger formulations and may be combined with other treatments, such as tretinoin or cortisone cream to increase effectiveness.
Tretinoin Creams
Tretinoin is a topical medication available by prescription to fade age spots and diminish fine lines and wrinkles, according to SmartSkinCare.com. Tretinoin is useful in encouraging healthy cell production and exfoliating dead skin cells that can make the skin appear dull. While forms of tretinoin known as the ingredient retinol are helpful in exfoliating the skin, their results may be limited when used to treat age spots.
Side Effects
The degree of side effects from age spot creams may depend upon the strength of the cream you are applying. However, common side effects include redness, drying and peeling, according to Derma Network. Because these creams may make your skin more susceptible to the sun, it is a good idea to wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher when going outside.
Warning
In some instances, age spots that appear suddenly can be an indicator of a precancerous lesion, according to "Age Erasers for Women." If your age spot develops very quickly, changes shape, bleeds or becomes irregular in texture, seek a physician's evaluation. Your physician can determine if cancerous cells are present in the lesion.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Age Spots
- MedlinePlus: Liver Spots
- Derma Network: Age Spots, Sun Spots & Liver Spots
- Rodale Center for Women's Health. "Age Erasers for Women: Actions You Can Take Right Now to Look Younger and Feel Great." 1997.
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