Years and years of worshipping the sun - or just a mere few sunburns over the years - can cause age spots. They're flat, freckle-like spots that appear on body parts that tend to be exposed to the sun most, such as hands, arms and the face, and fair-skinned people seem to be most susceptible. The upper layer of skin is where melanin, the substance that gives skin color, is produced. UV light accelerates the production of melanin, and when skin is frequently exposed to UV light, melanin may "clump" or be produced in excess in those areas. This results in black, brown or gray age spots that can be the size of a small freckle or as large as one centimeter across. Regardless, the best way to treat them is to avoid getting them in the first place. Typically, age spots begin to show up in those over the age of 40, but that timetable can be pushed back with excessive sun exposure and damage.
Simply using sunscreen liberally every day - even in winter when UV rays are low - can prevent and minimize them. UVA rays - the harmful kind - can still get through car windows, so if you have a long commute, dermatologists recommend outfitting your car with UVA-repelling film. If you already find that you have age spots, then you may need medical intervention. A dermatologist may do one of several treatments to lighten them. Dermatologists can prescribe bleaching creams, treat with laser therapy sessions, or freeze off age spots. All of these processes require the diligent use of sunscreen - or total avoidance of the sun - during treatment. A certified esthetician can perform dermabrasion, in which the top layer of skin is basically sanded off to expose fresh, new skin underneath. A chemical peel, which involves applying an acid to the first layer of skin, essentially to burn it off, achieves the same result. Irritation can result from both, and sun protection is recommended. But all of these methods tend to work. If you'd rather cover your sun spots, then use a good concealer that's one shade lighter than the rest of your skin. Prevention is the best treatment, however.