Signs and Symptoms of Age Spots
Age spots (also known as sun spots, liver spots, and lentigines), are harmless, flat, yellow or brown discolorations of the skin which usually occur on the back of the hands, neck and face of people above the age of 40. These age spots are usually not serious, but instead are mainly an annoyance since they can reveal a person’s age. However, if you have irregular, dark spots that increase in size or change color/texture, have them checked by a doctor since they could be a sign of skin cancer.
Causes of Age Spots
Age spots are commonly a sign of sun damage by having the skin exposed to the sun over many years. In more serious situations, they can be due to impaired liver function or dietary and nutritional deficiencies.
For example, as we age, our metabolism changes and the liver can become overwhelmed with toxins. If the liver cannot rid the body of these toxins, age spots (liver spots) can begin to develop. Oxidation within the body and a lack of antioxidants in your diet can also play an important role in the development of age spots.
It is important to remember that age spots take years to form and eliminating them will take time, too. But don’t give up! Try one of the remedies below for a few months, and if they don’t improve simply try another one. Also, as a preventative measure, always use a sunscreen of at least SPF 15 if you plan to be outdoors in the sun for extended periods of time.
Home Remedies for Age Spots Treatment
Apple Cider Vinegar
When Apple Cider Vinegar is mixed with onion juice and applied directly to the skin, it can help you to get rid of age spots and sun spots.
- Finely chop or blend an onion, and use a strainer or cheese cloth to squeeze and extract the juice.
- Take one part of Apple Cider Vinegar and one part of onion juice and mix them together.
- Dab a cotton pad into the solution and apply it directly onto the age spots.
Leave this on the skin for a minimum of 30 minutes, and as long as you are comfortable with it. Repeat this once a day for approximately 6 weeks and you should begin to notice a gradual improvement.
Always patch test first, as onion juice or ACV may irritate sensitive skin.
To speed up the process, you can mix 1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar and a pinch of salt into 12 oz. of water (hot or cold), and drink this once daily for a month. This will not only improve your age spots, but it will also give you a healthy young glow and make you feel energized and active. If you find the taste of the vinegar to be too strong, try adding a tablespoon of honey as a natural sweetener.
Always use a glass or steel straw when drinking apple cider vinegar to help protect your tooth enamel.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera juice or gel has long been known as a general healing agent for skin problems, particularly burns. Many people have also found it to be helpful in reducing the visual appearance of age spots. Simply rub the juice or gel directly onto the affected areas twice a day, and leave it on the skin for at least 45 minutes each time. Within a month you should begin to notice improvements.
Lemon Juice
The acid in Lemon juice has been shown to help fade the appearance of age spots. Simply dab fresh lemon juice directly onto the spots twice daily and you should begin to notice improvements in about two months. Leave the juice on the skin for at least 30 minutes, or as long as you are comfortable with it. You can also leave the juice on the skin overnight.
NOTE: If you plan to go outdoors, wait for the juice to dry as it increases the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.
Castor Oil Remedy for Age Spots
Castor Oil has been shown to improve the appearance of age spots. Simple rub the oil directly onto the affected skin areas once in the morning and once in the evening. This should help fade the spots within a month.
Another effective remedy is to mix equal parts organic cold-pressed castor oil and baking soda (e.g., 1 tbsp each) to form a paste. Gently use as a scrub on areas with age spots, dark spots, or sun spots once or twice a month. Always patch test first, as baking soda may irritate sensitive skin.
References
Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available?
J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2013 Jan-Mar; 6(1): 411.
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