These spots are referred to as liver spots (though they have absolutely nothing to do with liver function according to The National Library of Medicine), age spots or sun spots. They can also occur in younger people if they spent too many hours in the sun or as a result of pregnancy or birth control use. That latter two are because specific hormones can also trigger faulty melanin production.
Age spots can come in various sizes and are commonly found on a person’s arms, shoulders, and hands, as well as his or her face. They are typically harmless, but due to their appearance, they are not necessarily desirable. If you have a number of age spots that you wish to lighten, but you are not so keen on dousing your delicate skin with harsh chemicals, you should try the following simple, all-natural home remedies. Regardless of your beauty regimen, you are sure to find that one of the methods below will work with your schedule.
These treatments are not only indicated for your facial skin, but for all skin, and you can use them to treat age spots on your neck and chest just as effectively. Remember that neck and chest skin is usually more delicate than your skin in most other areas, so you must treat each section with extra care.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar (Time Needed: One Week)
One of the hallmarks of apple cider vinegar, and all types of vinegar is its ability to dry out the skin. That is why it is considered a healthy choice for curing skin ills as diverse as acne and psoriasis. This ability also makes apple cider vinegar an effective defense against age spots.
Simply mix half of a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with two tablespoons of orange juice and apply it to the area marked by age spots. Make sure that the mixture is completely dry before washing it off with cold water to close the pores. This will dry out each individual spot. If the orange juice irritates your skin, you can try mixing the apple cider with one part water and honey instead. You can use this method daily and within one week it is sure to produce astonishing results!
2. Aloe Vera (Time Needed: One Month)
Aloe vera is a well-known treatment for all types of skin issues. The plant contains innate skin-regenerating and healing properties have been well-documented, and it is one of the purest natural resources that you can use to rid yourself of age spots.
Take the aloe vera gel and rub it gently on each spot. (If the gel form is unavailable, you can always find aloe vera juice at almost any supermarket.) Leave the gel on the skin for at least a half hour before rinsing it thoroughly with cold water. Do this twice a day for approximately a month and the spots will be visibly lightened.
3. Lemon Juice (Time Needed: Two Months)
The juice of ripe lemons contain natural bleaching agents, and it also tones your skin, keeping it clear and soft. For these reasons, lemon is a mainstay ingredient in many of the facial masks and peels on the market.To lighten your age spots, simply apply the lemon juice on each spot, and let it dry for 30 to 45 minutes before rinsing the area with cold water. If your skin is oversensitive, dilute the juice with honey or water. Do this every day, twice a day, for about eight weeks to get the maximum results.
Or, if you prefer masks and peels, you can mix the lemon juice with sugar and olive oil to form a paste, and scrub the affected areas. Allow the mixture to dry and rinse it off with cold water after approximately 10 minutes. Do this 3 times per week for two months and you are sure to see an improvement.
It should be said that some of these natural bleaching remedies can create what is known as a “halo effect,” meaning that the area around the spots can appear lighter than the skin around it. If this occurs, it goes without saying that you should stop what you are doing and try a different method. Also, please note, if your spots change shape or drastically change in texture or color within a few days, it is important to consult your physician. You don’t want to mistake a possibly cancerous lesion for an innocent age spot.
In conclusion, the natural remedies listed above can reduce the appearance of unsightly age spots and you can choose the method that best fits in with your beauty schedule. Using these treatments in conjunction with a sunscreen with a high SPF rating will enable you to maintain a glowing, youthful appearance regardless of your age.