Age spots, also known as liver spots, sunspots, solar lentigines, and senile keratosis, are changes in the skin’s pigmentation, usually of light to dark brown or light to dark gray coloring, and may appear on the face, neck, V of the neck, and backs of the hands. Though they often come on as we age, that does not have to be the cause. Age spots can also be brought on through nutritional deficiencies, free-radical damage, elevated blood sugar levels, sun exposure, and topical alcohol contacts (such as cologne and some cosmetics). To prevent age spots, protect the skin from the sun, even if it means wearing a hat and cotton gloves. Natural food stores carry sunscreens made with quality ingredients that can offer sun protection.
Age spots take years to form and eliminating them will take time too, so don’t give up! Try a remedy for a few months, and if the condition hasn’t improved, try another one.
NATURAL REMEDIES THAT REJUVENATE THE SKIN
Things to apply topically twice a day for at least a month include aloe vera juice, apple cider vinegar, plain yogurt, castor oil, lemon juice, fresh papaya, or pineapple slices. Just rub any of these items on the area you have spots, leave on for 15 minutes, rinse off, and dry. All of these remedies, many of which are high in alpha-citric acid, help heal damaged tissue, lighten the skin, or cause the dead layers of skin to easily exfoliate, so new skin will be healthier and visible.
GOOD TO GROW!
You can even use dandelion sap for age spots. Just pick a dandelion, break open the hollow stem, and apply the white juice inside on the spot. It contains enzymes that help break down spots.
BEST FOODS TO PREVENT AGE SPOTS
Eat more blueberries and vitamin C rich foods, which help increase collagen production, making the skin more resistant to free radical damage. Eat at least five servings daily of tart apples, berries, red pepper, and fresh fruit in season.
Eat fresh raw leafy greens daily and dark orange vegetables, such as carrots, winter squash and sweet potatoes, which are all high in beta-carotene, which makes the skin more resilient to damage.
Skip This!
To avoid age spots, avoid refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, junk foods, and heated or rancid oils. All of these foods are stressful for the body and rather than being health giving can expose the body to free radicals that show up eventually as skin damage.
WHEN TO SEE YOUR M.D.
If you have irregular dark spots that increase in size or change color or texture, have them checked immediately by a doctor.
This Natural Treatment For Age Spots article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
