Sunspots are small brown or pink discoloration on the skin. They are usually in clusters in areas such as the chest, forehead, hands, arms, legs, nose, and temples. Basically any areas that are repeatedly exposed to the sun for extended periods of time. Depending on how protected the skin is, it can sometimes take many years for these spots to appear.
The problem is that you may think your skin is protected enough and then several years later sunspots might begin to appear. There are many natural remedies to help lighten, reduce and eliminate these spots if it is something that bothers you.
[ Sunspots are the result of excessive exposure to UV rays from the sun and tanning beds. The skin absorbs these rays and produces melanin to protect cells from damage. The result is hyperpigmentation or brown spots. ]
The spots themselves are not harmful or dangerous but they are a sign that your skin is not being properly shielded from the sun.
Apple cider vinegar
The acetic acid found in apple cider vinegar naturally lightens skin. Acetic acid encourages dead skin to be discarded and stimulates new cell growth.
Directions:
Mix one part apple cider vinegar with 3 parts olive oil or water. Apply it to the desired areas and allow it to dry for 10-20 minutes and rinse with warm water. Do this once a day until you see results.
Note that apple cider vinegar is strong and may sting or burn or leave redness. This is natural but if it stings too much try diluting the mixture with more oil or water.
Lemon juice
The citric acid naturally found in lemon juice has a bleaching effect on the skin. It breaks down dark pigmentation and lightens spots. It usually takes between 1-2 months for full results.
Directions:
Apply a small dab of fresh lemon juice or a fresh lemon slice to the spots 1-2 times a day. Allow the juice or lemon slice to stay on the skin for 20-30 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Do this every day for 1-2 months.
Note that lemon juice makes the skin extra sensitive to sun exposure so be sure to keep out of the sun while using lemon juice. Take extra precautions and use sunscreen along with hats and clothing.
Aloe vera
Aloesin and aloin are active compounds found in aloe vera that lighten skin. Results usually occur after 4-6 weeks of regular applications. It is best to use fresh aloe vera because it is pure and vitamin dense.
Directions:
Cut a small piece about 1/2 inch. Slice off one side of the green skin to reveal the gel. Rub the gel over any affected area and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. Then rinse with cool water. Repeat this twice a day until the spots are gone.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant that prevents free radical damage including sun damage. Vitamin E works together with Vitamin A to lighten hyperpigmentation such as sunspots and evens skin tone. Foods like almonds, avocado, spinach, butternut squash, and broccoli contain high amounts of vitamin E. Incorporate plenty of these foods in your diet to help heal your skin from the inside out. You can also purchase vitamin E capsules to take as a supplement.
Directions:
You can buy a bottle of vitamin E oil or puncture vitamin E capsules and apply the oil directly to sunspots. Allow the oil to absorb into the skin. You do not need to rinse or wash it off. Repeat this at least once a day until you see results.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. These rays are what causes damage to the skin and results in sunspots. Vitamin C can be found in foods like horseradish, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, papaya, and strawberries. You can also find it as a vitamin supplement or liquid gel capsule. Be sure to eat plenty of foods with vitamin C.
Directions:
Puncture a vitamin C capsule and apply it to any age spots. Allow the vitamin to fully absorb into the skin. There is no need to rinse or wash it off. Do this once a day until you see results.
Papaya
Papaya contains high amounts of alpha-hydroxy acids. They naturally exfoliate and lighten the skin and are also a common chemical peel ingredient.
Directions:
Using fresh papaya, take a small amount in a bowl and mash it into a thick paste. Apply this to the affected areas and allow it to dry for 30 minutes. Rinse with cool water. Repeat this 2 times a day until the spots fade.
Castor oil
The ricinoleic acid and omega fatty acids found in castor oil lighten skin and even out hyperpigmentation. It stimulates the production of new cells that rebuild and repair damaged skin.
Directions:
Apply a small amount of castor oil to the skin. Allow it to dry for at least 1 hour. Rinse with cool water. Repeat this 1-2 times a day until spots are gone.
Moving Forward
Now that you are on your journey for freshly healed skin you need to move forward differently. Protect your skin from unnecessary exposure. Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a few errands around town, cover your skin with clothing, hats and most importantly SUNSCREEN! Apply sunscreen 20 minutes prior to sun exposure and bring along a hat and light clothing for protection.
Avoid tanning beds and tanning oils. Tanning beds only expose you to UV rays that will damage your skin and tanning oils are designed to attract the harmful rays of the sun. Please go outside and enjoy nature but protect your skin.
