Help for Age Spots

Age spots, liver spots, sunspots and the mask of pregnancy are all names for hyperpigmentation. There are several factors that contribute to these problems, but one common denominator is sun exposure. When you expose your skin to the sun, your skin tries to protect itself by producing melanin, the pigmented cells in your skin.

Solar lentigos, commonly called age, sun, or liver spots have nothing to do with the functioning of your liver. They are caused by years of over-exposure to the sun. Although they may look like large freckles, they are different. Freckles are more prevalent in young people and tend to fade with age. Solar lentigos appear in later years on areas exposed to the sun like the face, head and backs of the hands. Although unsightly, they are harmless but should not be confused with melanoma. Products to fade the spots are available from a professional esthetician and a dermatologist can remove the spots with a variety of treatments.

Malasma, or the mask of pregnancy, is commonly found on the face. It appears during pregnancy, nursing, or when a woman is taking birth control pills. Products containing kojic or hydroquinoin plus glycolic acid can help fade the discoloration.

Hyperpigmentation can be prevented by proper use of sun block. Every day apply SPF 15 sun block to your face, neck, backs of the hands and to your fore arms. Men should also use sun block on their ears, backs of their necks and on tops of their heads if the hair is thin. Even though you may think that you will not be out in the sun, apply sun block. You will walk to and from your car, driving with the sun coming through the windows, and going out to pick up the mail. On days that you will be out gardening or picnicking, re-apply the sun block often. Use waterproof sun block when swimming or if you will be perspiring abundantly.

Sunscreens and sun blocks can act as your moisturizer. If you find them too greasy, try an oil free product. Two major types of sunscreens are available: those that absorb the sun's rays and those that reflect the rays. If you are sensitive to ingredients in the sunscreens that you've tried in the past, try a product with titanium dioxide. The label may say that it is chemical free, meaning that instead of chemicals to absorb rays, micellized solid particles reflect the rays.