What are they and what can we do about them
Age spots also known as liver spots at one time they were thought to be associated with liver problems however they have nothing to do with the liver. Age spots or liver spots are highly pigmented areas on your skin. You will notice them most where your skin is regularly exposed to the sun. Age spots generally become noticeable after age 40, they are blemishes on the skin that develop as we age as a result of years of sun damage or regular use of the tanning beds.
Age spots or liver spots may be found on any skin color, however they are most prevalent on lighter skin types.
Don’t get age or liver spots mixed up with Freckles. Freckles are tiny brown spots that usually appear on sun-exposed areas during childhood. Freckles usually fade as we get older. Age spots or liver spots are produced in your cells that produce melanin, a substance that darkens the skin. Age spots look somewhat similar to Freckles but are usually seen later in life and tend not to fade without treatment. Age spots are usually about the size of a Freckle or up to 1 / 2 inch in diameter.
Also do not get age spots mixed up with bruises under the skin caused by medication you may be taking.
Age spots do not cause itchiness. If you have an itchy age spot or the spot changes in its appearance it is time to see the Dermatologist. Before you start any kind of home remedy to treat age spots or liver spots I recommend going to see your Dermatologist for a full body check.
Prevention
Here are some tips to help prevent age spots or liver spots from forming.:
- Avoid being in the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m…
- Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes prior to going outdoors. Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
- Cover up. Wear tightly woven clothing that covers your arms and legs and a broad brimmed hat.
Treatment
Alas, if you already have the dreaded spots there are two channels for treatment. The natural way or the Dermatologist.
The downside to using the natural method is you must program yourself to faithfully apply products daily. It will most likely take 4 to 6 weeks to see an improvement.
The natural treatment which could be one of the following:
- Use a Vitamin C Serum directly on your age spots daily. Follow up with a facial moisturizer.
- For the economical way use Apple Cider Vinegar. If the vinegar is too strong for your skin you may mix it with olive oil which will protect the skin from dryness. Apply every day and leave on your skin 20 min. then remove it with a gentle cleanser.
Your second choice is your Dermatologist:
- Medication, bleaching creams, retinoids, etc.
- Laser
- Freezing
- Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
- Chemical peel
The above treatments are pricey with no guarantee that the problem won’t re appear. Whichever option you choose, it is imperative that you follow the PREVENTION above or you will see the condition reoccurring.
