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Sun spots are often more prevalent in older individuals, but they can appear in younger people as well. Explore additional images of skin conditions.
Photo by Eric Anthony Johnson/Workbook Stock/Getty ImagesIt's well known that spending too much time in the sun can damage your skin. However, it's not just about getting sunburned. Continuous sun exposure can lead to persistent discoloration patches known as solar lentigines, or more commonly, sun spots [source: Journal of Drugs in Dermatology]. These spots are sometimes called age or liver spots, though they are not directly linked to age or liver function. They are typically brown or gray and often appear alongside other signs of sun damage, such as wrinkles and dry, thinning skin [source: Mayo Clinic].
Sun spots come in various sizes, shapes, and shades, usually appearing on areas of the body that receive the most sunlight, such as the hands and face. Fair-skinned individuals are more prone to developing them compared to those with darker skin. In fact, over 90% of light-skinned individuals over 60 experience sun-related age spots [source: Skin Resource Center, Mayo Clinic]. However, darker-skinned people aren't immune to sun damage, which may show up as gray or ashy patches on deeper skin tones [source: My Skin Care Connection].
Sun spots are typically the result of years, even decades, of excessive exposure to harmful UV rays. However, young people can also develop them. Tanning beds, commonly used by teens and young adults to achieve a bronzed look, can sometimes lead to premature sun spots. These spots may darken with time and even merge into larger areas of discoloration.
The good news is that while sun spots might reveal more about your sun-soaked history than you'd prefer, they’re usually harmless and can be treated effectively in various ways. As with most health issues, the best approach is prevention. Keep reading to learn how to avoid getting sun spots in the first place.
How to Prevent Sun Spots
While sun spots are a sign of skin damage, they also reflect your body’s defense against the sun’s harmful rays. When exposed to UV light, melanocytes in the outer skin layer increase melanin production. This extra melanin causes tanning, which protects the deeper layers from further damage. However, when too much melanin is produced in one spot, or over time, it can result in persistent speckles and spots [source: Mayo Clinic].
The best way to prevent sun spots is to limit sun exposure. Since these spots typically form on the face, arms, neck, and shoulders, covering these areas can help avoid discoloration. If you're not into lounging under an umbrella, there are still other ways to shield yourself from UV rays.
To start, make sure to apply sunscreen daily. Many moisturizers and foundations now contain sunscreen, and some mineral-based cosmetics offer a natural sun protection factor (SPF). However, relying solely on makeup for sun protection isn't enough. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that shields against both UVA and UVB rays about 15 minutes before going outside. Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 15, but preferably SPF 30 or higher [source: UCSF School of Medicine].
If you're often in your car, you're probably getting a significant dose of UVB rays, which are responsible for causing sun spots. UVA rays, by contrast, are mainly responsible for sunburns. If possible, consider installing an anti-UVB coating on your car's windows [source: The Patient's Guide].
You may be familiar with the skin-rejuvenating benefits of retinol, a form of vitamin A. For nighttime skincare, try using a moisturizer that contains retinol to help repair and renew your skin.
Keep reading to discover ways to reduce the visibility of sun damage on your skin.
While some mineral cosmetics claim to protect the skin from sun damage, the evidence is still inconclusive on their actual effectiveness in the amounts they’re typically applied. One estimate suggests that you would need to use 14 times more mineral makeup than usual to achieve its sun protection benefits [source: Skincare-news]. Given this, mineral makeup should be considered just one component of a more comprehensive sun protection strategy.
Treating Sun Spots
Although sun spots are generally not cancerous, it's important to consult a doctor if you notice any irregularities or drastic changes in the appearance or texture of your skin. Never assume that a sun spot is harmless, and always seek professional advice before considering any treatment options.
Once you've received a diagnosis, you have several treatment avenues available, from prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies to various dermatological procedures. Laser therapy, for example, targets the cells producing excess pigment, while cryotherapy freezes and destroys the pigment itself. Dermabrasion and chemical peels remove the damaged outer layer of skin to allow fresh, healthy skin to regenerate [source: Mayo Clinic].
If these treatments seem too expensive or time-consuming, you can try a topical solution. Look for products containing hydroquinone, which is often found in certain cosmetics as well. Hydroquinone works by reducing melanin production, giving new skin cells the chance to grow and gradually fade the discolored areas [source: My Skin Care Connection]. Kojic acid and tretinoin are also used to treat sun spots, though they tend to be less effective than hydroquinone-based treatments, as is the antioxidant vitamin retinol.
If you're not convinced by costly skin treatments, there are natural alternatives that could help treat sun spots. Keep reading to explore some all-natural remedies that may restore your skin's radiance.
Think you can tell your makeup apart from medicine? You might want to reconsider. These days, the boundary between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals is becoming increasingly blurred, thanks to the rise of a new category of products called cosmaceuticals. These are beauty items that promise health benefits for your skin [source: Harvard Health Publications]. While many of these products can help minimize the signs of sun damage, it's crucial to note that most are not regulated by the FDA. Always read label claims carefully, and consult your doctor to determine which products are right for you.
Natural Ways to Eliminate Sun Spots
If chemical peels or hydroquinone solutions aren't appealing to you, there are plenty of natural options to reduce sun damage on your skin. Start by incorporating a flavonoid-rich diet into your routine, which could also lower your cancer risk. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants found in many fruits, vegetables, grains, tea, and soy-based foods [source: American Chronicle].
Here are some other natural remedies you can likely find right in your kitchen:
- Lemons -- Lemon juice is a natural skin lightener, so applying it a couple of times a day can help with this purpose. But be cautious, as lemon juice can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Be sure to cover treated areas when outside to prevent undoing the effects of your treatment [source: American Chronicle].
- Onions and garlic -- If you're willing to endure the smell of your dinner, this inexpensive dermabrasion alternative might work for you. Apply onion juice or a garlic clove to your sun spots, as their acidity can help peel and lighten the skin [source: DocShop].
- Milk -- The lactic acid in milk helps to regenerate skin cells. Buttermilk and yogurt also have similar effects.
- Papaya -- Apply its flesh to your skin for 20 minutes daily until you achieve the desired results.
- Castor oil and aloe vera -- These won't bleach sun spots, but they can help smooth out your skin's texture.
- Vitamins -- While you can take vitamins orally, did you know you can also apply them directly to your skin? Look for products with vitamins A (or retinol), E, and C, all of which have antioxidant or cell-repairing properties. Vitamin B3 and coenzyme Q10 can also help protect your skin from UV damage [source: Harvard Health Publications].
To gain more knowledge on how the sun impacts your skin, be sure to explore the links provided on the following page.
Before you start raiding your kitchen for the perfect skin remedy, keep in mind that natural treatments generally take longer to show results compared to chemical alternatives. In fact, most food-based remedies require at least a month (and often up to two months) to work. Additionally, the results will vary depending on the level of sun damage. Lighter areas may completely fade, while darker spots may only show partial improvement.
