It is a myth that only old people get age spots, even young people get them. This article provides information on various ways to treat these spots.
Age spots are also called liver spots and solar lentigines. It is the exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun that causes such spots in people of all ages. These spots appear when melanocytes (cells present in the surface layer of the skin) get damaged by these rays. These spots are gray, brown, or black in color. There are numerous ways to treat the liver spots.
Laser technology is commonly used for the removal of these spots. Microdermabrasion is another procedure that involves the use of aluminum oxide crystals. Aluminum oxide is the second hardest mineral known to man, and it is non-carcinogenic and non-toxic. These crystals help remove the dead skin and discoloration. In diamond microdermabrasion, a diamond tip wand is used to polish the skin and remove the dead cells. There is no significant difference in the cost of these methods and many spas across the nation offer these treatments.
You can also follow the home remedies given below:
Aloe Vera
The aloe plant is found in abundance in many parts of Africa and India. It is a very succulent plant. Aloe vera extracted from the plant contains 18 amino acids, which is very helpful in treating the pigmentation. Applying this gel twice a day helps in the removal of these spots. Many scientific studies have proven the healing qualities of this gel. Some of these also claim that it possesses moisturizing qualities.
Buttermilk
Lactic acid present in the buttermilk prevents the growth of pathogens and it is also very useful for age spots. Dab buttermilk on the marks with the help of cotton to reduce them.
Castor Oil
One of the most widely used vegetable oil is castor oil, which is extracted from castor beans. It contains isostearic acid and succinic acid, which are good skin conditioners. Due to its molecular weight, it can penetrate deep into the skin, thereby rejuvenating the skin and fading the marks. This oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which is why it’s used in the food and pharmaceutical industry.
Onion and Vinegar
Mix two tablespoons of onion juice with two tablespoons of vinegar, and apply the solution on the marks. For better results, use this concoction twice a day, and continue to apply this mixture till you see the results. It usually takes a couple of months for visible results.
Manjistha Root (Rubia Cordifolia)
Mix manjistha root powder with honey and apply on the affected area. This mixture heals the skin and gives it a natural glow. Manjistha root is a herb used in ayurveda concoctions across the globe for skin ailments.
Cosmetic Remedies
Some of the cosmetics that are often used for such spots contain acids derived from fruits, and some have chemicals such as lactic acid and vitamin A. The use of cosmetics for treating this skin condition is very popular, as they are easy to use and cost-effective.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHAs)
AHAs are derived from fruits, and they contain glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and other such acids, which are good exfoliants. Cosmetic products containing AHAs are used for the removal of dead skin cells, and the alpha hydroxy acids in these creams helps to remove the liver spots.
Retinoids
Creams which contain retinoids derived from vitamin A help in the growth rate of our skin cells. These also help accelerate the exfoliating process.
Chemical Peels
- There are several ‘use at home’ chemical peels available in the market, which can be used to remove the dead skin and reduce the spots. Consult a dermatologist to know which peel suits your skin type.
- Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) peels are used to treat these spots by the dermatologists. This concentrated solution is placed on the skin to remove the spots. The procedure takes about 1 hour.
- Glycolic acid peels can also be used. This acid is derived from fruits, and these peels have almost no side effects.
- Jessner peel contains lactic acid and salicylic acid. This peel penetrates the epidermal layer and helps the sun-damaged skin.
There are different remedies for this skin condition, and depending on your preference and skin type, you are free to choose any of the aforementioned solutions. However, consult your dermatologists or physician, before you start following any of these remedies.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by a dermatologist.
