We do a full examination of our face in the mirror practically every day as if it is part of our morning or evening routine. We stare at every blemish and watch the effects of aging take place with a little disgruntle every time we spot something new. Age spots occur on the skin looking like tan, brown, or black spots. Age spots are also called liver spots and/or sunspots. The darker pigment of the skin is actually a response to injury (sun exposure). Sunspots are very, very common, mostly seen on the face, arms, hands, and shoulders. The years after age 50 seem to display the early exposure to sun. True age spots are harmless. They’re also more visible on people who have a lighter skin tone.
Fighting off the effects of aging is not the battle we wanted to face, but age spots are part of this. The sun is good in small doses, and tanning beds are to be avoided. Although we can pretty much self-diagnose age spots, it is important to ask your doctor to examine your skin every 6 months to check for any cancerous growths.
Treatment is possible to lighten these spots. Natural remedies exist too. Some at home methods include applying aloe vera to the areas as it has been known to help lighten the skin. Various oils work well too such as rose hip, almond, castor, vitamin E, and sandalwood because they help inhibit melanin. Pomegranate juice works too when applied then washed away after it has sat for a few minutes. Honey can be mixed into a mask for the face when put in yogurt, lemon juice, or even with milk. Lemon juice becomes a paste when turmeric is mixed with lemon juice to use as a mask. Tomato slices are also used as you lay down and let them soak in on the areas. Tomatoes contain lycopene that reverse radiation damage.
The key is to start protecting your skin now. Prevention is key and that doesn’t just mean avoiding the sun. Eat plenty of food with antioxidants too such as such as citrus, berries, bean, and fish because the sun causes oxidative stress. Don’t wait any longer. Yes, we need that sunshine vitamin D, but we should also wear sunscreen, especially on the face. Look for a face moisturizer that has sunscreen in it and there are also makeup products like powders and foundations that also contain sunscreen. An extra layer never hurts. The spots do become darker with more exposure. Covering up is also another good idea. If you are going to be gardening or bike riding, wear gloves. There are hats to protect your face and some even have UV protection. Shielding your skin even if it is hot is very important. Re application of sunscreen should also be done.
We can’t erase the past which can creep up on us. Yet, we can protect the skin moving forward to at least slow down or reduce the risk of more and more aging. Don’t let your skin reveal your age. Your outer layer needs to be taken care of. It protects you, so in turn, protect it. Age spots are only spots that are memories of the sun. It’s time to store those memories and make new ones being safe in the sun.
Age spots (liver spots) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
What can get rid of age spots? (aad.org)
Topical treatment for age spots – Harvard Health
Dr. Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has a Doctorate in Health and Human Performance, M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor. She has 6 books on Amazon too,.
