What Causes Age Spots: Prevention and Best Natural Treatment Options

Last Updated on 14/04/2025 by Liz @ HealthTenfold
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Age Spots: Causes, Prevention and Treatment

Age spots are black, gray, or brown spots that appear on areas of your skin often exposed to the sun—such as the face, shoulders, upper back, backs of the hands, and forearms. They are also known as liver spots, dark spots, solar lentigines, senile lentigo, or sunspots.

Despite being referred to as liver spots, they have no connection to liver function, so there’s no need for alarm.

If you’re over the age of 40, you may start to notice these spots forming, but even younger individuals who spend a lot of time in the sun can develop them. Understanding what causes age spots is the first step in preventing and managing them.

While age spots are harmless and don’t require removal, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons—or due to concerns about an increased risk of melanoma.

Causes of Age Spots

Understanding what causes age spots begins with melanin—the pigment that gives your skin its color. Age spots, also known as liver spots or sunspots, occur when melanin production becomes overactive in specific areas of the skin. This overproduction is often triggered by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which accelerates melanin synthesis.

The sun is the most common source of UV rays, which is why these spots frequently appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, shoulders, hands, and arms. However, it’s not just the sun that contributes—artificial UV sources like tanning beds and lamps can have a similar effect, often leading to premature pigmentation.

As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage, and its ability to regenerate slows down. This is why aging itself is a key factor in the development of age spots. Years of cumulative sun exposure, combined with slower skin turnover, create the perfect environment for melanin to cluster and form visible dark spots.

Beyond UV exposure and aging, some lifestyle and internal health factors may increase the likelihood of developing age spots:

• Poor diet lacking in antioxidants can reduce the skin’s natural defenses against oxidative stress. Read more here.
• Lack of regular exercise can impact circulation and overall skin health.
• Compromised liver function may affect how the body processes toxins, which some natural health practitioners believe could influence pigmentation.
• Consumption of rancid or processed oils can contribute to inflammation and oxidative damage at the cellular level, which may accelerate skin aging.

While not all these causes are universally agreed upon in mainstream dermatology, they are often considered in holistic and natural skincare approaches to preventing and treating age spots. Find the product here.

Why Age Spots Develop: Key Risk Factors to Know

Although age spots can appear on anyone—regardless of age, skin tone, or gender—certain factors increase your susceptibility. Being aware of these can help you take preventive steps early on.

1. Fair or Light Skin Tone

Individuals with lighter complexions are more prone to developing age spots. This is because fair skin has less melanin, offering less natural protection against UV radiation, which accelerates pigment clustering in exposed areas.

2. Age Over 40

As we age, the skin becomes thinner and its ability to regenerate slows down. The cumulative effects of sun exposure over the years make those over 40 significantly more likely to develop age spots, especially if sun protection wasn’t consistently used in earlier years.

3. Frequent Sun Exposure

Spending a lot of time outdoors without proper sun protection—whether it’s for work, leisure, or daily routines—can greatly increase your risk. UV rays stimulate excess melanin production, particularly in areas like the face, shoulders, chest, and hands.

4. Use of Tanning Beds

Artificial tanning is just as harmful as direct sunlight. Tanning beds emit concentrated UV rays, which can accelerate skin aging and the formation of age spots—sometimes even earlier than natural sun exposure would.

5. Genetic Predisposition

Some people may simply be genetically more prone to developing pigmentation issues, including age spots. If your parents or siblings have them, you might have a higher likelihood as well.

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How to Prevent Age Spots (Sun Spots)

While you can’t always stop age spots from forming, you can significantly reduce the chances that age spots develop—and potentially delay their appearance. These simple yet effective habits can save you the cost and stress of later treatments while keeping your skin healthier and more radiant over time.

Here are the best prevention strategies to protect your skin from harmful UV exposure:

1. Limit Sun Exposure During Peak Hours

Ultraviolet rays are strongest between:

• 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in winter, and
• 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in other seasons.

During these peak hours, try to stay indoors or seek shade if you’re outside. If you exercise or work outdoors, aim to do so earlier or later in the day when the UV index is lower.

2. Wear Sun-Protective Clothing

Clothing can act as your skin’s first line of defense. Opt for:

• Wide-brimmed hats to shade your face and neck
• Long-sleeved shirts, pants, or long skirts
• Tightly woven fabrics that don’t allow sunlight to penetrate easily
• UV-protective clothing labeled with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 40–50 for excellent protection

These garments are especially helpful during long outdoor activities or while traveling.

3. Use a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Daily

Sunscreen is essential—but not all are created equal. Many conventional sunscreens contain harsh chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which may irritate the skin or disrupt hormones.

Instead, opt for natural, mineral-based sunscreens that use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These sit on the surface of your skin to block UV rays rather than being absorbed into your body. Choose broad-spectrum formulas with at least SPF 30, and make sure to reapply every two hours—or more often if swimming or sweating.

How to Get Rid of Age Spots Naturally and Safely

Understanding what causes age spots—namely UV-induced melanin overproduction—helps guide the most effective ways to fade or eliminate them. While age spots are harmless and don’t require treatment for medical reasons, many people seek to remove them for aesthetic purposes or to restore an even skin tone.

When considering treatments, it’s important to weigh effectiveness against potential side effects. While medical options exist, many carry risks like skin irritation, scarring, and sun sensitivity. That’s why natural, plant-based solutions are increasingly favored—not only for their gentleness but also because some are supported by scientific research for their skin-brightening effects. Read more here.

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🌿 Natural Treatments for Age Spots (Recommended First-Line Option)

Natural treatments are gentle on the skin, rich in antioxidants, and offer a long-term approach without the side effects common in harsher chemical-based solutions.

Here are the top evidence-supported natural remedies and oils to treat age spots:

1. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil mimics the skin’s natural sebum and contains vitamin E and fatty acids, which support skin repair and regeneration. While not a bleaching agent, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help improve overall skin tone and reduce the appearance of age spots over time. Find the product here.

2. Rosehip Oil

Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A (retinol), and essential fatty acids, rosehip oil promotes collagen production and cell turnover—helping fade hyperpigmentation and age spots naturally. Research supports its ability to reduce discoloration and sun damage over consistent use. Find the product here.

3. Frankincense Essential Oil

Known for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties, frankincense oil may help reduce the appearance of dark spots and promote even skin tone. It’s often used diluted with a carrier oil for gentle, consistent application. Find the product here.

4. Thuja Oil (from the Thuja tree)

Thuja occidentalis has long been used in natural medicine for skin pigmentation issues. Products like Amoils’ Age Spots Formula, which contains thuja oil, are specifically formulated to reduce liver spots and discoloration without harsh chemicals. Find the product here.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

ACV contains acetic acid, which is a mild exfoliant and has natural skin-lightening properties. It works by gradually peeling away pigmented skin layers, especially when used regularly. Mix with water or a carrier oil to reduce irritation.

6. Lemon Juice

A natural bleaching agent thanks to its citric acid content, lemon juice helps exfoliate the skin and lighten dark spots. However, it can make your skin more sun-sensitive, so always follow up with sunscreen and avoid using it undiluted if you have sensitive skin.

7. Yogurt or Buttermilk

Both contain lactic acid—a gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA)—that exfoliates and brightens the skin naturally. They’re well-tolerated even by sensitive skin and can be used as a simple, nourishing mask.

8. Papaya

Enzymes like papain, along with AHAs, gently exfoliate the top layers of the skin, promoting cell turnover and fading sunspots. Always do a patch test first, as some people may be sensitive or allergic to papaya.

9. Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood has natural anti-aging properties and skin-lightening effects. It can help minimize pigmentation when used consistently in oil blends or masks. Find the product here.

10. Horseradish

This lesser-known remedy contains vitamin C and natural compounds that slow melanin production. Mix grated horseradish with apple cider vinegar for a simple brightening blend.

💡 Note: Natural remedies require patience and consistency. Results often become noticeable after several weeks to a few months, depending on skin type and the severity of pigmentation.

Ready-Made Natural Formulas for Age Spots: Harnessing the Power of Thuja and Essential Oils

You can also find natural oils specifically formulated to reduce the appearance of age spots—without any of the harsh chemicals or synthetic additives often found in conventional treatments. One standout option is a blend featuring Thuja occidentalis, a homeopathic ingredient known for its ability to support skin healing and balance pigmentation.

A great example is the Age Spots Formula by Amoils, which combines the therapeutic power of Thuja occidentalis 12C with a nourishing base of natural plant oils. Its inactive ingredients include:

• Corylus avellana (hazelnut) oil – lightweight and rich in fatty acids for deep hydration
• Essential oil blend with:
  • Citrus limonum (lemon) peel oil – brightens and gently exfoliates
  • Daucus carota (carrot seed) oil – rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants for skin regeneration
  • Lavandula officinalis (lavender) oil – calms inflammation and soothes the skin
• Rosa moschata (rosehip) seed oil – high in vitamin C and retinoic acid to fade dark spots and boost collagen
• Sesamum indicum (sesame) seed oil – supports skin elasticity and locks in moisture

Together, these ingredients work synergistically to fade liver spots, nourish the skin, and restore a more even, youthful complexion—naturally and gently.

Find the most recommended product here.

💊 Medical Treatments and Their Side Effects

If natural treatments aren’t giving you the results you want, there are medical options available—but they come with possible side effects and require careful use, especially for sensitive or darker skin tones.

Prescription Creams

• Often contain hydroquinone, tretinoin, or corticosteroids
• Work by inhibiting melanin production or promoting skin turnover
• Can cause redness, peeling, dryness, or heightened sun sensitivity
• Must be used with daily SPF 30+ sunscreen to prevent further pigmentation

Dermatological Procedures

These offer faster results but are invasive and come with risks:

• Laser Therapy: Targets melanin deposits directly; may cause temporary discoloration or inflammation
• Cryotherapy: Freezes spots with liquid nitrogen; may leave scars or lighten skin permanently
• Chemical Peels: Uses acids to remove damaged skin layers; risk of irritation or hyperpigmentation
• Dermabrasion: Exfoliates deeply to remove the outer layer; recovery time required and may cause redness or scabbing

🔎 Important: Always consult with a dermatologist before undergoing any invasive treatments, especially if your skin is prone to sensitivity or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

🌞 Prevention Is Still Key

Even the best treatments won’t be effective if you continue exposing your skin to the root causes of age spots—primarily UV radiation. Use mineral sunscreen daily, wear sun-protective clothing, and nourish your skin with antioxidant-rich oils and foods.

When to see a doctor

When to See a Doctor About Age Spots

While age spots (also known as liver spots or dark spots) are typically harmless, it’s important to remember that what causes age spots, such as sun exposure, can also increase the risk of developing more serious conditions like melanoma. If you notice any of the following changes in your age spots, it’s advised to consult with a healthcare professional:

• Rapid growth of the spot
• Unusual color variations within the spot
• Bleeding, itchiness, redness, or tenderness around the age spot
• Darkening of the spot or changes in its appearance

If you observe any of these developments, seeking medical advice is crucial to rule out potential skin cancer. Regular monitoring of age spots can help catch early signs of melanoma and improve outcomes.

In Summary: What Causes Age Spots and How to Address Them

Age spots, also known as liver spots or dark spots, are a common skin condition primarily caused by prolonged UV exposure, which accelerates melanin production. These spots typically appear on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, and shoulders. While age spots themselves are harmless, they can be a sign of skin damage, and their development can increase the risk of melanoma.

What causes age spots is closely linked to sun exposure, although factors like genetics, poor diet, and aging can also play a role. Preventing age spots involves limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and using natural sunscreens. Treatment options include natural remedies, such as essential oils, and medical procedures like laser therapy or cryosurgery.

It’s essential to monitor age spots and watch for any signs of change, such as rapid growth, color variation, or tenderness, as these may indicate more serious conditions like skin cancer. Early intervention can help address these changes and maintain skin health. Find the product here.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalized advice regarding the prevention, treatment, or diagnosis of age spots. If you notice any changes in your skin or suspect a more serious condition, please seek professional medical attention promptly. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making significant changes to your skincare routine.

Read more: 10+ Most Common Skin Problems and their Best Natural Remedies
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