Age spots are small brown patches that occur on the surface of the skin. They usually develop later in life as the result of frequent exposure to the sun or tanning beds. They occur when clumps of pigment known as melanin build up in concentrated patches. Though they are almost always harmless, they can be quite embarrassing. There are several products available designed to remove or lighten these spots. Age spot creams are the most common, and they are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strengths.
Age Spot Creams Available
Chanel Le Blanc Targeted Brightening Spot Corrector: Recommended by Oprah Winfrey, Chanel’s Le Blanc Targeted Brightening Spot Corrector comes with a hefty price tag, but it offers remarkable results. It contains a molecule known as tranexamic acid that actually works to slow the production of melanin in the skin. In time, this lightens existing age spots and prevents new ones from developing.
La Roche-Posay Mela-D Skin Lightening Daily Lotion: This lotion is one of the many over-the-counter products that contains hydroquinone as an active ingredient for lightening age spots. Hydroquinone is the only ingredient that has been approved by the FDA for the bleaching of pigmentation. The concentration of hydroquinone in this cream is two percent, which is half the strength of prescription lotions. Some people experience experience good results, but this product is typically best for lightening spots that are not extremely dark. Very dark spots are unlikely to fade a considerable amount. Because it contains hydroquinone, it can also be dangerous to use over an extended period of time.
Celabright: Celebright lightens and brightens skin without the use of hydroquinone. It has been clinically tested and proven to provide noticeable results in as little as four weeks. Unlike products containing hydroquinone, Celabright can be used over an extended period of time to ensure the most dramatic results.
Revitol: Revitol is another age spot cream that does not contain hydroquinone. Instead, this plant-based formula uses a natural approach to treat age spots. Arbutin, one of the primary ingredients, is extracted from the bearberry plant and has skin-lightening properties. While the results of Revitol are not comparable to the results of using prescription creams or undergoing other treatments, it does make dark spots less noticeable and improve the overall condition of the skin.
Tri-Luma: Tri-Luma is one of the most effective prescription age spot creams available. It contains hydroquinone to lighten age spots and brighten the skin, a derivative of vitamin A known as tretinoin to clear the skin and an anti-inflammatory that helps the skin heal. This product is very effective because of how well these three ingredients work together. It can, however, cause dryness of the skin, burning, itching, changes in skin color, stretch marks and acne.
Age spot creams typically do not provide the same results as other treatments such as laser spot removal or chemical peels. For most people, creams are a safe way of reducing the appearance of spots, but not getting rid of them entirely.