Age spots: What are they, causes & how to get rid of them

1. Age spots on the face:
   Age spots on the face are very common as it’s an area frequently exposed to the sun, which is a primary trigger for them. Age spots on the face are darkened patches of skin that typically appear in areas such as the cheeks, forehead, and nose.
   
   
2. Age spots on the hands:
   Age spots usually occur on the back of the hands, and like age spots on the face, can grow and merge together.
   
   Age spots on hands can appear flat and brownish in colour which can make them appear like brown stains. Sometimes age spots on hands can appear as raised growths known as seborrheic keratosis. 
   
   
3. Age spots on the body:
   Age spots can also appear on other parts of the body, commonly on the arms, shoulders and legs. They are the most common cause of discoloration and just like on the face, these pigmentations develop from sun exposure, hormonal changes, pregnancy, or some types of medications.
   Whether on the face, hands or body, age spots usually appear from the age of 40 and are a natural sign of ageing. After all, your skin has endured a lot for you over the years. They can affect people of all skin types, but are more common in adults with light skin.

Age spots typically fall into two main types based on their causes and appearance:

1. Senile Lentigines: 
   Senile lentigines are age spots that are a result of the natural ageing process and not solely due to sun exposure. They tend to be smaller and more numerous compared to sun-induced age spots. Senile lentigines may develop on areas of the body that are less frequently exposed to the sun, like the chest, abdomen and back.
   
   
2. Solaris Lentigines: 
   These are the most common type of age spots and are caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays. They appear as flat, oval, or irregularly shaped spots with varying shades of brown, tan, or black. These spots typically occur on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, arms, and upper back.
   
   It's important to note that age spots are generally harmless and not a cause for medical concern. However, it's essential to monitor any changes in the appearance of spots on the skin and consult a dermatologist if there is uncertainty about their nature or if they show signs of irregularity.

Serum: 
Choose a serum that could help brighten your skin and fade dark spots, including age spots. Products like the NIVEA Cellular Luminous630 Anti-Spot 2-in-1 Anti-Age & Spot Serum contain Collagen boosting ingredients and Hyaluronic acid to pump the skin with moisture. It’s formulated to help target age spots, even out your skin tone and reduce wrinkles. Dermatologically approved, it is gentle to the skin and suitable for all skin types.

The NIVEA MEN Anti-Age 2 in 1 Power Serum also helps target signs of ageing. Formulated with Thiamidol and Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate, combat wrinkles and reduce the appearance of age spots, it offers a convenient solution for men seeking effective anti-aging care.  

Day Cream:
A day cream provides essential moisture and hydration throughout the day, helping to restore the skin's natural barrier and shielding it from environmental aggressors like UV rays, pollution and other stressors that can contribute to the formation of age spots and other skin conditions. The NIVEA Cellular Luminous630 Anti-Dark Spot Day Cream is a lightweight moisturiser that not only provides intense moisture but also helps to reduce the appearance of age spots over time. Made with powerful Thiamidol technology, it’s suitable and effective for all skin types.

Night Cream:
At night, to support your skin's natural regeneration process while you sleep, consider using a night cream that contains ingredients that could help to reduce the appearance of age spots. The NIVEA Cellular Luminous630 Anti-Dark Spot Night Cream contains cell-activating Hyaluronic Acid that helps to rejuvenate your skin and contains Thiamidol to help reduce the appearance of age spots.

Sunscreen:
During the day, make sure to protect your skin from further sun damage and shield your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a sunscreen with a high SPF. The NIVEA SUN UV Face Specialist Dark Spot Control Fluid helps to prevent and visibly reduce sun-induced spots by protecting your delicate facial skin against UV rays. This light and non-greasy fluid formula enriched with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E offers a refreshing effect and a smooth skin feeling. It is also made with Thiamidol to visibly reduce sun-induced age spots within just 4 weeks.

Optional Weekly Mask Treatment:
Once a week you could also incorporate a brightening face mask into your routine. The NIVEA Q10 Power Anti-Age Brightening Mask helps to provide an extra boost of brightening. The serum-infused mask is enriched with dual action Coenzyme Q10 and acts as a powerful antioxidant to protect skin against aggressors. 
By incorporating NIVEA's Luminous skincare products into your routine, you could reduce your age spots and help prevent new spots from forming.

Seek Shade: 
Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours when the sun's rays are strongest (usually between 10 am and 4 pm). Seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or wear protective clothing. 

Protective Clothing: 
Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabrics to shield your skin from the sun. By adopting these preventive measures and making sun protection a priority, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing age spots and maintain healthier, youthful-looking skin over time.

Keep Hydrated:
Staying hydrated helps to maintain your skin's moisture barrier, which acts as a protective shield against external factors like UV radiation, pollution and free radicals. A strong moisture barrier can aid in preventing damage that can lead to age spots. To stay hydrated, it’s recommended to drink a minimum of 1.2 litres of water a day.