Age spots can be an unsightly condition that begins to form as people age. They can make you seem older on the outside than you feel on the inside, which can decrease overall quality of life. Age spots occur when the skin loses its ability to recover from sun exposure and damage. This damage results in brown spots that appear on exposed areas of the body such as the arms, face, chest, neck, scalp and back. The spots can vary in size and shade, which makes them different from freckles. The best way to prevent age spots is to avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen. However, these techniques will help you get rid of age spots if the damage is already done.

1. Prevent further damage

Age spots can darken and grow larger with more exposure to the sun, so always apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen whenever you go outside. All it takes is a few minutes for the sun to damage skin.

2. Use aloe vera

Aloe vera has been shown to reduce the appearance of age spots when used at least twice a day. Aloe can be purchased almost anywhere, and it is effective in any form. It can take several months to start seeing a difference, but persistence will pay off in this situation.

3. Try common kitchen items

Apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice are home remedies that many people have used to reduce the appearance of age spots. Just like aloe, it can take several months before a difference can be noticed.

4. Over-the-counter skin creams

There are many skin creams available without a prescription that can work to quickly eliminate age spots. These often work by bleaching the skin, so it should carefully be applied to only the affected areas. Long-term use of these creams is discouraged as they can damage the skin after repeated applications.

5. Chemical peel

A chemical peel is a procedure performed by a professional that uses acid to remove the top layer of skin. This allows newer cells to take the place of the damaged cells. It may take several applications, but the results are guaranteed.

6. Scrub the age spots away

Dermabrasion is another procedure performed by professionals that can scrub away the top layer of old, damaged skin cells. It is slightly less effective than a chemical peel, but it is less damaging to the skin.

7. Pricey, but effective

The use of lasers is the most effective way to get rid of age spots. Lasers remove age spots by destroying cells that make the pigments that darken skin. This method has few side effects, but it can be extremely expensive if multiple treatments are needed.

Dealing with age spots is a part of growing older, but it is a battle that can be won. By using the treatments outlined above, you can improve your appearance with clear, even skin. This will boost your confidence and let the world see how young you feel!