Our hands are always busy, whether it is in the kitchen, at work and even while driving. In fact, given that we’re always using this important part of our body, it is quite surprising that it is often the most neglected and dire need of care.
Age spots are also known as sun spots, liver spots, or solar lentigines. They are extra pigment from too much sun exposure. Age spots are caused by UV rays. Our skin cells produce melanin, which is responsible for pigmentation. These can be flattened and brownish-colored or raised wart-like growths called seborrheic Keratosis.
You can prevent wrinkles by applying sunscreen to your back and hands regularly, but make sure to look for a natural sunscreen. This will help you keep your hands looking younger longer.
Preventing Age Spots
These are some of the methods that medical professionals use.
- IPL (intense-pulsed lighting) is one way to remove age spots. It destroys the pigment and causes the spot to become darker and fall off within a week. Although it is painless, you may need to do up to four sessions in order for the best results.
- Cryotherapy can be used to treat single age spots and small groups of pigment-making cells. The liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin to freeze the pigment-making cell, causing the spots’ to fall off. Multiple treatments might be required.
- A chemical peel is when a dermatologist applies an acid to the skin to remove the outer layer. This layer is removed and a new layer of skin will develop. The frequency and depth of the chemical peel will depend on how severe the spots are and what type of acid was used.
- Laser treatments are extremely precise pulses that break down melanin pigment to tiny particles. This allows the body to eliminate it naturally. It is painless and not dangerous, but it can cause hyperpigmentation.
Natural Treatments for Removal of Age Spots
- Lemon juice is known for its lightning abilities. Make juice from a lemon. Then, put the juice in a bowl and soak a cotton ball in it. Allow the juice to sit for twenty minutes before applying it to the affected areas. Rinse with water. Continue this process for several weeks until liver spots disappear. To check for irritation, do a patch test.
- Another option is Aloe Vera. A fresh leaf of aloe vera can be cut from the center and squeezed out. The gel can then be applied to age spots. Let it sit for twenty minutes before rinsing with water. Every second day. If you don’t have fresh leaves, the gel can be purchased at health shops. It will nourish your skin and provide instant relief. It is recommended to do a patch test before applying the gel.
