How to Fade Age Spots on Face and Hands

Age spots are the result of hyperpigmentation.

Age spots form on the face and hands when years of sun exposure result in increased melanin. Hyperpigmentation occurs in all skin colors and in people of any race. Several treatment methods yield promising results for those suffering from unsightly darkened spots on their face and hands. Treatment options range from lotions and creams to professional laser and dermabrasion procedures at the dermatologist's office.

Things You'll Need

• Alpha hydroxy lotion
• Hydroquinone cream

Instructions

1. Apply bleaching creams such as hydroquinone and alpha hydroxy acids on the age spots on your face and hands. The more powerful creams must be prescribed by your dermatologist. Over-the-counter lightening creams contain a slightly weaker percentage of hydroquinone cream, but they can be effective on lighter and newer age spots. Rub about a dime-sized amount of cream on the age spots at least twice a day. You may have to repeat the procedure daily for a few months for the spots to fade.

2. Undergo a microdermabrasion treatment, which is a procedure during which the skin is sanded with a special instrument to remove the age spot from your face and hands. As the skin heals, the darkened age spot eventually disappears.

3. Opt for the cryosurgery method in which the superficial skin tissue is frozen with liquid nitrogen. This procedure causes the dark age spots to peel off to reveal lighter skin underneath.

4. Obtain a laser-skin rejuvenation treatment at your dermatologist's office. Several laser treatments are formulated to remove age spots from your face and hands. The light from the laser targets the excess melanin in the skin, causing it to blister and peel after several days. Several treatments may be necessary to get rid of the age spots completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear sunblock. This preventative measure should be employed everyday.

• If you're using any bleaching creams, avoid the sun; sun exposure can lead to even darker age spots.

References

• Acne: What Your Skin Needs
• American Osteopathic College of Dermatology: Hyperpigmentation