How to Get Rid of Age Spots Naturally

Age spots, also known as liver spots, typically appear on the face, hands, shoulders, forearms and other areas of skin regularly exposed to the sun 1. According to the Mayo Clinic, age spots appear most frequently in adults over the age of 40, though they can also affect younger people 1. Despite their name, age spots are not caused by aging alone, but occur from long-term exposure to the sun or other sources of UV light. Considered harmless, age spots require no medical treatment. Bleaching with over-the-counter products or natural remedies may reduce their appearance.

Apply the juice from a fresh lemon to age spots at least twice per day to naturally reduce their appearance. Allow the juice to remain for 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Lemon juice contains mild acidic agents that may slough away dead cells from the skin's outer layer and lighten dark spots on the skin.

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Combine equal parts honey and plain, whole yogurt to create a mild, natural bleach that may lighten skin spots when used regularly. Apply directly to the skin, allow the mixture to dry for at least 30 minutes, then rinse clean with warm water. Repeat once per day for the best results.

Rub a piece of fresh pineapple over age spots to gently lighten their appearance. In her book “Ageless Natural Beauty,” Sally Freeman recommends performing this treatment at least once per day for the best results 3. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is a mild bleaching agent suitable for reducing age spots.

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Apply aloe vera gel directly to age spots to help reduce their appearance. The Reader's Digest book, "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems," recommends using gel fresh from the living plant, if possible 4. Aloe vera contains chemicals that gently remove dead skin cells and encourage the growth of new, healthy cells. Apply once or twice per day until you achieve the desired results.

Apply plain buttermilk, an old folk remedy for age spots, directly to the affected area once or twice per day to get rid of age spots. Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates pigmented and sun-damaged skin while mildly bleaching.

Tips

While getting rid of age spots naturally is possible, it takes commitment and time to see results. Many natural remedies work slowly, over time, so stick with it and you should notice improvement in several days to weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. Avoid excess sunlight and always use sunscreen to prevent age spots from becoming dark again. Bleaching them with natural materials won't last permanently if you expose your skin to the elements that caused the damage in the first place. Try applying vitamin E oil to the skin after spending time in the sun to prevent the formation of age spots.

Warnings

Consult your physician before attempting remedies at home.