Can You Eradicate Those Dreaded Brownish Spots
Have you noticed that gradually you have accumulated brown spots on your skin, especially on your face and hands? Many of us do, especially as we age, and we are not happy about them. Where did these skin spots come from, and what can you do about them?
The brown spots that you see today are probably the result of your lifestyle ten or more years ago. Although we didn't know this when we were young, brown spots are actually caused by over exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays. Our bodies create melanin to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet rays. Melanin is what gives our skin pigment, and eventually, with long term repeated exposure, excess pigment forms brown spots.
These spots, also referred to as "liver spots" or "age spots," are not harmful, but they are unsightly. They occur mainly on those areas of our bodies that receive the most sun exposure such as the backs of our hands and our faces. Since they are caused by the sun's UV rays, prevention is the most important strategy for dealing with them. Genetics and life style play a big role, so if you are one who is prone to these skin spots, and if you spend a lot of time outdoors, be especially vigilant about using a broad spectrum sun screen. Get one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and that is rated at SPF 30 or above.
There are both home remedies and over the counter products that can lighten these skin spots. If you choose the commercial products, consider only those that do not contain bleach or hydroquinone. Bleach can be irritating to sensitive skin, especially the face, and hydroquinone is a questionable ingredient that may cause skin cancer. Look for products such as homeskinwhitening anti aging skin brightener that contain natural gentle compounds such as alpha-arbutin which contributes to faster, more effective skin lightening.
Want to try a home remedy? There are many to choose from that are quite effective, but be patient because most of these can take months for results to become apparent.
A few of the more popular home remedies are:
Lemon juice – it has been used for years, and many people swear by it. Most users recommend mixing it with a little honey and dabbing it on your spots twice a day. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe it off. You'll have to be patient as it can take months to see significant fading of your brown spots.
Milk products – milk, yogurt, and buttermilk all contain lactic acid which can lighten the skin. Apply it twice a day, and after a few minutes wipe it off.
Both Aloe Vera and Vitamin E can be rubbed into brown spots to lighten them. These elements contain healthy antioxidants that can be beneficial to your skin.
It's important to know that you can lighten those unsightly brown spots. Whether you choose commercial or home products, you don't have to live with those skin spots.
