Age spots are dark blemishes that rarely respond to over-the-counter treatments. Though the term “age spot” suggests natural aging causes these marks, they’re the result of prolonged sun exposure. Along with fine lines and patches of rough, leathery skin, age spots indicate collagen loss and increased melanin production secondary to UV damage.
Though age spots are one of the most stubborn skin blemishes, our Oasis Aesthetics team knows how to treat them, both at home and in our clinic. To learn more, contact us at (435) 627-8150, or check out the tips below.
Treating Age Spots at Home
The best way to treat age spots is to prevent them from forming in the first place. Use a medical-grade SPF 50 sunscreen every time you go outside, even if it’s overcast or you only plan on going out briefly. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat will give your face an added layer of protection, too.
If you see age spots forming despite your best efforts, you can try a cream that contains hydroquinone, a mild bleaching agent. Though hydroquinone takes at least three months of repeated use to produce results, it can gradually fade mild age spots. However, you should not use this product if you have dry, sensitive, or dark skin. For darker-skinned individuals, a form of vitamin A called retinol may be a safer option than hydroquinone because it’s less likely to cause uneven pigmentation. Make sure you talk to a professional esthetician or dermatologist before trying any new product on your skin.
Professional Treatments for Age Spots
Age spots are difficult to treat at home because melanocytes, which produce melanin, sit just below the surface of the skin. Unless you get these overactive melanocytes removed, your age spots will keep coming back, no matter what you try.
To completely eliminate problematic melanocytes, we recommend using a chemical peel. During this procedure, we apply mild organic acids to the skin and leave them in place for 30 to 90 minutes. These acids dissolve the superficial layers of the epidermis, which allows them to effectively target melanocytes. After removing these pigment-producing cells, healthy new skin forms in their place, putting an end to age spots. Chemical peels stimulate cellular renewal and increase collagen production, so they’re effective for getting rid of fine lines and rough patches, too.
Ready to Try a Chemical Peel? Talk to Oasis Aesthetics in St. George, Utah
Chemical peels are one of the best ways to resurface the skin. A peel can make your skin brighter, smoother, and more youthful after a single treatment. If you’d like to try this procedure, contact the Oasis Aesthetics team at Desert Bloom Plastic Surgery in Utah to arrange a consultation.
