Age spots do have the word “age” in them, but they can occur because of an entirely different reason. Even adults in their 30s and 40s can develop this problem. And if you take the right action at the right time, it’s possible to get rid of them.

So, in today’s post, we will discuss what actually causes age spots and how to remove them from your face naturally.

What causes age spots on the face?

Age spots, also known as liver spots or sunspots, are flat and darkened patches of skin that typically appear on areas exposed to the sun. You’ll find them on your face, hands, arms, and shoulders. 

These spots may vary in size and can range in color from light brown to black. While age spots are usually harmless and don’t require medical treatment, understanding their underlying causes can help prevent them.

  1. Sun Exposure

The primary culprit behind age spots is prolonged and repeated exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. If you spend too much time under the sun, the UV rays will cause melanin to collect in the exposed areas.

This leads to the formation of these dark spots. Please note, fair-skinned individuals are more susceptible to sun-induced age spots than those with darker skin tones.

  1. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy or while taking certain medications, can trigger the development of age spots. This form of hyperpigmentation is commonly referred to as melasma.

  1. Tanning Beds

Artificial tanning, including the use of tanning beds or creams, can contribute to age spot formation. Tanning beds emit UV radiation, which damages the skin and promotes the development of dark spots.

How to remove age spots naturally with lemon juice?

Lemon juice is the best way to remove age spots. It contains natural acids, particularly citric acid, which acts as a gentle exfoliant and skin brightener. 

Here’s how to remove facial age spots using lemon juice:

Supplies Needed:

  • Cotton balls or a clean cotton pad
  • Pure lemon juice (avoid bottled lemon juice with added preservatives or sweeteners).
  1. Cleanse your face

First, wash your face with a mild cleanser or antibacterial soap. This will remove any oil, dirt, or leftover makeup. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

  1. Perform a patch test

Although lemon juice is a natural way to remove age spots, it may cause irritation or sensitivity in some individuals. So, before applying it to your face, do a patch test on a small area of skin, like the inside of your wrist. Wait for at least 24 hours to ensure there is no harmful reaction.

  1. Apply the lemon juice

Dip a cotton ball or pad into the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Gently dab the lemon juice directly onto the age spots. 

  1.  Leave it on and rinse

Allow the lemon juice to sit on the age spots for about 10-15 minutes. It’s normal to feel a slight tingling sensation. After this, rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water.

  1. Moisturize and protect

Follow up with a face cream or moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. Lemon juice can be drying, so it’s essential to keep your skin well-hydrated. Also, always apply sunscreen before heading outdoors, as lemon juice can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

How to remove age spots with hydrogen peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic and bleaching agent that is commonly used for various skincare purposes, including lightening age spots. 

It works by breaking down the excess melanin in the age spots and gradually reducing their appearance. So, when used properly and in appropriate concentrations, hydrogen peroxide can be an effective and affordable option to remove age spots on the face.

Here’s how to remove age spots at home using hydrogen peroxide:

  1. Choose the right concentration

Hydrogen peroxide is available in different strengths, aka concentrations. For skincare purposes, it’s best to use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Higher concentrations can cause skin irritation and damage, so avoid using undiluted solutions.

  1. Perform a patch test

Before applying hydrogen peroxide to your face, do a patch test on a small area of skin, like the inside of your wrist. Wait for 24 hours to ensure there are no adverse reactions.

  1. Cleanse your face

Wash your face with a mild cleanser or soap. Then, use a soft towel to dry your face.

  1. Apply hydrogen peroxide

Using a cotton ball or cotton pad, dab the 3% hydrogen peroxide solution directly onto the age spots. Gently massage it into the skin for a couple of seconds.

  1. Let it sit and rinse

Allow the hydrogen peroxide to sit on the age spots for about 5 minutes. If you feel extreme irritation, rinse it immediately. But if you feel only mild tingling, let it sit for another 5 to 10 minutes. Then, rinse your face. 

  • 6. Moisturize

After treating your skin with hydrogen peroxide, apply a gentle moisturizer to help prevent dryness and maintain skin hydration.

  • 7. Sun Protection

After applying hydrogen peroxide, it’s crucial to protect your skin from the sun, as exposure to sunlight can worsen pigmentation issues. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going outside.

Important: Do not perform this treatment excessively to avoid excessive drying or irritation. Start with once a day or every other day and monitor your skin’s response. If you experience any irritation, redness, or discomfort, stop using hydrogen peroxide immediately and consult a dermatologist.

What’s the best home remedy to remove age spots?

Both lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide are great ways to remove brown age spots from your face. But if you don’t have them at your home, you can try the following remedies too:

  • Aloe vera

To use aloe vera for treating age spots, simply apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the affected areas. Gently massage the gel into the skin and leave it on for about 30 minutes before rinsing off. 

  • Papaya

Mash up ripe papaya into a smooth paste. Apply this paste to the facial age spots and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. Once the paste has dried up a bit, rinse it off with fresh water. Papaya’s enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids may help exfoliate and lighten age spots with regular use.

  • Apple cider vinegar

Dilute apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water. Apply the solution to the age spots using a cotton ball and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing off. Be cautious, as it may cause skin irritation.

  • Green tea extract

Brew green tea and let it cool. Dip a cotton ball into the cooled green tea extract and apply it directly to the age spots. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. The antioxidants in green tea may help lighten age spots over time.

Before you go!

It doesn’t matter which method you choose to remove age spots on your face. There’s one thing you need to remember — age spots will return if you aren’t consistent with skincare. It’s especially true if you’re above 50 years. 

You see, as we age, our skin undergoes various changes. The production of melanin becomes less regulated, and its distribution becomes uneven. This makes our skin more susceptible to sun damage. 

So, it’s important to repeat the home remedies daily to lighten the age spots over time. Also, avoid going outside during peak sun hours (12 pm to 3 pm) and wear high-quality sunscreen. Good luck!

Article updated on February 26, 2024

•February 26, 2024