Age spots are brownish black spots that occur in areas that have been exposed to the sun, according to Medline Plus. Spots are usually flat and painless. Age spots are common as people age (especially after 40). Although harmless, some people are self-conscious about them. Fortunately, there are plenty of remedies to fade the appearance of age spots.

Bleaching Creams

Bleaching creams (such as hydroquinone), retinoid cream and steroid creams can reduce the appearance of age spots over several months, according to the Mayo Clinic. During this time, patients should use sunscreen. These topical treatments increase sensitivity to sun exposure.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are another method for getting rid of age spots. During a chemical peel, an acid will be applied to the face. This acid burns away the top layer of the skin. As the skin heals, a new layer of skin will grow. After this treatment, it's important to wear sunscreen. Chemical peels make skin more vulnerable to sun damage, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion "sands away" the top layer of skin using a rotating brush. This procedure gets rid of old skin cells, allowing new skin cells to grow. After dermabrasion treatment, expect the face to be red and irritated for a few days.

Laser Therapy Treatments

Laser therapy treatments destroy the darker pigment without causing damage to the skin's surface. Several treatments may be needed to minimize the appearance of aging spots. After several weeks, the spots should start to fade away.

Over-the-Counter Creams

People who want to fade age spots with over-the-counter creams should read ingredients closely. According to the Mayo Clinic, creams that contain glycolic acid, kojic acid or hydroquinone are the most effective.

Preventing Age Spots

After existing age spots have been treated, take extra care to avoid getting new spots. According to the Mayo Clinic, preventing age spots can be accomplished by using a sun screen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Make sure the sunscreen is "broad-spectrum sunscreen," which protects from UVB and UVA rays. Also, avoid the sun during the most intense hours, which are between 10am to 4pm.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Age Spots

Medline Plus: Liver Spots