Age Spots Can Be Dealt With

As people age, they will begin to notice changes to their skin that may shock or embarrass them. Sagging, wrinkles, loss of color, and age spots can occur anywhere on the body. Age spots are the most noticeable on the face, neck, chest, and hands. Brownish in color, these spots may appear light, but may darken over time. For many, this is a sign of aging that does not appeal to them. While many people are willing to accept weight gain or graying hair, age spots can make a person feel old. But there are ways to help decrease the appearance of these spots and allow a person to feel good about themselves and about aging.

Age spots are caused primarily by sun damage. If a person enjoys getting a great tan during the summer months year after year, they will probably have age spots when they are older. As with any new mark found on the body that is brown or black, and especially if it is hard to the touch, should be examined by a doctor so that skin cancer can be ruled out. Many times people ignore their bodies as they age. Catching skin cancer before it is too late may save a person's life.

Other causes of age spots including smoking, drinking, lack of moisture, and extreme cold. Each of these conditions depletes the body of vitamins including Vitamin C which helps keep the skin in an elastic state. Avoiding excessive behavior and by using a moisturizer with a sunscreen every day will help decrease the amount of age spots one may develop when they are older. Although there is no guarantee, the amount of age spots will be dramatically less. Eating properly and exercising regularly will also help decrease the amount of age spots.

When a person develops these spots, there are a few ways to diminish the appearance of them. Laser surgery is the fastest and more expensive way to clear away age spots. This surgery, which is also called skin resurfacing, will not keep new age spots from forming, but will make existing spots disappear. An average session will cost a person around $800.00. Other ways to remove age spots include creams and lotions. A dermatologist can prescribe Retin-A which will make age spots disappear by gently peeling away layers of the skin until the spot is gone. Over the counter creams are also available that will lighten the spot and cause it to fade. These creams can take a year or more to have their full effects. Talk with a dermatologist to find out the best products to use.