How to Reduce the Appearance of Sunspots

Age spots begone with these natural remedies.

Liver spots. Age spots. Sunspots. No matter what you call them, you want them gone. Here are tips and remedies for how to reduce the appearance of sunspots.

Technically known as hyperpigmentation, sunspots are harmless discolorations that occur wherever the skin is regularly exposed to the sun–places like the face, neck, upper chest, arms, and hands. While many sunspots are darker than the surrounding skin, some can appear whitish in color. People with lighter skin may be more prone to liver spots, but they can affect anyone regardless of skin color or complexion.

If you’re not interested in medical treatments, which can be harsh and expensive, then it’s time to try these natural sunspot remedies.

How to Reduce Sunspots

1. Apple Cider Vinegar & Lemon Juice for Sunspots
One of the natural sunspot remedies is to mix ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, which contains alpha hydroxy acids, and ½ teaspoon of lemon juice, which offers a natural lightener called citric acid. Soak a cotton ball in the mixture, and then use it to apply the mix to your face. If you have sensitive skin, dilute the mixture with a little water before applying. Learn more in 50+ Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar.

2. Green Tea for Sunspots
Green tea contains high levels of antioxidants that may help heal skin damage, such as age spots. Soak a green tea bag in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, and then squeeze the liquid from the bag into a cotton ball. Rub over sunspots twice a day. You can also nourish your skin and the rest of your body with a Green Tea Mango Smoothie.

3. Buttermilk for Sunspots
Buttermilk delivers lactic acid, a substance used for centuries to lighten skin–it’s said this sunspot remedy was used by Cleopatra. Soak a cotton ball in buttermilk, and dab it onto spots. Allow the buttermilk to stay on your face for several minutes before gently washing it away.

4. Aloe Vera for Sunspots
Like buttermilk, aloe is one of those ages-old sunspot remedies. It’s believed to work by supporting the regeneration of new skin cells. Squeeze aloe vera gel directly from a plant onto a cotton ball, and then apply to sun-damaged spots before bedtime. Gently rinse it off in the morning. Another option is to purchase a high-quality, all-natural aloe vera cream or gel.

How to Prevent Sunspots

When you want to know how to reduce sunspots, perhaps one of the most effective remedies is to prevent them before they ever pop up. Sunscreen is a must-have tool. Choose a broad-spectrum product to block both UVA and UVB rays. Look for formulas with a 30 SPF or higher, and apply it about 15 minutes before sun exposure.

It’s also essential to reapply sunblock throughout the day. Many sunscreens start breaking down after about two hours, which means you can expect to apply it several times a day for complete protection. Hats, large sunglasses, scarves, and long sleeves will offer additional sun-blocking power.

In addition to these sunspot treatments and prevention tips, you might also like to treat your skin to:

DIY Avocado Facial Cleanser
DIY Makeup Remover  
DIY Lemon Brown Sugar Hand Scrub

Find out what makes our Facebook and Pinterest so popular by joining our community of followers! And stay up to date on recipes, workouts, and other healthy lifestyle tips by subscribing to our newsletter.

We love to hear from our readers! Please comment on this post and let us know what you think!

 

This post may include affiliate links.

SAVE YOUR FAVORITE RECIPES
Create a FREE account for quick & easy access

Amy Wagner

Amy is a writer specializing in health & wellness, business, and entrepreneurship. She's a long-time martial arts teacher who has earned a 4th degree black belt in tae kwon do. When Amy's not writing or kicking, she's wrangling sons, reading fiction, or crushing on BBC actors.

More by Amy

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *