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How to get rid of sun spots

The ultimate guide on sun spots, discover everything you need to know about sun spots, their causes & how can they be prevented.

What are sun spots?

Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines, are darkened areas on the skin caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. These flat, brown, or black spots typically develop on areas of the skin that receive the most sunlight, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms. 
Sun spots are a result of the skin's natural defence mechanism against UV damage, leading to an overproduction of melanin - the pigment responsible for skin colour. While generally harmless, these spots can be annoying, emphasising the importance of sun protection and skincare to prevent their formation.
6 places you can find sun spots

Where do sunspots develop on the body?

Sun spots predominantly develop on areas of the body that receive regular exposure to sunlight. Here's a list of places you might find sun spots on your body:
woman using Nivea Cellular Luminous Anti Spot Serum
  1. Face:
    The facial region is particularly susceptible to sun spots due to its frequent exposure to sunlight. Sunspots of face often emerge on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and around the eyes.

  2. Hands:
    The backs of the hands receive substantial sun exposure, making them a common location for the development of brown sun spots.

  3. Arms:
    The forearms, in particular, are prone to sun spots as they are often uncovered and exposed to UV rays during various outdoor activities.

  4. Décolletage:
    The upper chest area, known as the décolletage, is another region where sun spots may appear, especially in people who wear low-neckline clothing.

  5. Legs:
    Sun spots can also develop on the legs, especially on the shin and calf areas, which are exposed to sunlight during outdoor activities.

  6. Back:
    The upper back, especially in people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors without adequate sun protection, can also be susceptible to sun spot formation.
4 causes of sun spots

What causes sun spots?

Understanding the causes behind the development of sun spots is crucial for effective skincare. Here are 4 causes of sun spots:
  1. Ageing:
    Sun spots are often associated with the ageing process. Over time, the skin's ability to repair itself and resist UV damage diminishes, making older people more susceptible to the development of sun spots.

  2. Sunburns:
    Severe sunburns, especially during childhood or adolescence, increase the likelihood of sun spot formation. Intense sun exposure that results in sunburn damages the skin and contributes to the uneven distribution of melanin.

  3. Environmental Factors:
    Other environmental elements, such as pollution and harsh weather conditions, can contribute to skin damage and increase the likelihood of sun spot formation, especially when combined with UV exposure.

  4. Genetic Factors:
    Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing sun spots. Genetic variations in skin pigmentation and the skin's ability to handle UV radiation can influence the susceptibility to sun damage and the formation of pigmented lesions.
4 ways to prevent sun spots

How to prevent sun spots

Preventing sun spots involves adopting sun-safe practices to minimise exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Here are effective ways to prevent sun spots:
woman using Nivea Cellular Luminous Anti Spots face cream

1. Use Sunscreen:

Regularly apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) to all exposed skin, including your face, hands, and any other areas prone to sun exposure. If you're unsure how often to apply sunscreen, a good rule of thumb is to reapply it every two hours at a minimum. Apply sunscreen more frequently if swimming or sweating throughout the day.

 

2. Wear Protective Clothing:

Choose clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats. Specialised clothing with UV protection is also available for added defence.

 

3. Seeking Shade:

Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak UV hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, stay in the shade to reduce your overall sun exposure.

 

4. Avoid Tanning Beds:

Artificial UV radiation from tanning beds can contribute to sun damage and increase the risk of sun spots. Avoid using tanning beds to maintain skin health. By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing sun spots and promote overall skin health.

6 ways to help get rid of sun spots

While it's challenging to completely eliminate sunspots, there are several methods that may help reduce their appearance. Here are six approaches:
  1. Natural Remedies:
    Some natural ingredients, such as Aloe Vera, Apple Cider Vinegar, or Lemon Juice, are believed to have skin-brightening properties. While these remedies may help lighten sunspots, it's essential to use them cautiously to avoid skin irritation.

  2. Topical Treatments:
    Over-the-counter or prescription skincare products containing ingredients like Retinoids, Vitamin C, Niacinamide or Alpha Hydroxy Acids can help promote skin renewal, exfoliation and reduce the appearance of sunspots over time.

  3. Laser Therapy:
    Laser treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy or laser resurfacing, can target pigmented areas and stimulate collagen production, leading to a reduction in sunspots. Consult a dermatologist to determine the most suitable laser treatment for your skin.

  4. Chemical Peels:
    Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This process can help improve the appearance of sunspots by promoting the growth of new, more evenly pigmented skin.

  5. Cryotherapy:
    Cryotherapy involves freezing the sunspot with liquid nitrogen, causing the darkened skin to peel off over time. This method is often used for individual spots or small clusters of sunspots.

  6. Microdermabrasion:
    Microdermabrasion involves using a device to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of sunspots. While it may not completely remove sunspots, it can improve overall skin texture and tone.

Skin care routine to reduce sun spots

NIVEA takes a proactive approach to skincare, offering a comprehensive routine crafted to address and prevent various skin concerns, including both dark spots and sun spots. Dark spots and sun spots both involve changes in skin colouration due to an accumulation of melanin, but they can be triggered by different factors.
Here's a suggested sun spots routine using NIVEA products:

1. Cleansing:

Start your routine with a gentle cleanse. Cleansing is crucial to remove impurities, ensuring a clean canvas for the subsequent steps. It also prepares the skin to better absorb the benefits of the following products.


Discover NIVEAs Face Cleansers
young woman using Nivea Sun Spot Control face cream

2. Targeted Spot Treatment:

After cleansing, apply a treatment serum. A spot treatment serum targets specific skin concerns, such sun spots, helping to even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of imperfections. The NIVEA Cellular Luminous 630 Face Treatment Serum contains Thiamidol and acts on existing pigmentation to lighten spots and reduce their size, while balancing new melanin production to prevent their reappearance, for even and luminous skin.

 

3. Moisturising:

After cleansing, apply a treatment serum. A spot treatment serum targets specific skin concerns, such sun spots, helping to even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of imperfections. Cellular LUMINOUS630 ANTI-SPOT Day Fluid SPF50 Moisturising is a vital step in skincare, offering hydration that maintains skin elasticity and prevents dryness. The  is a moisturising, lightweight day cream that helps to visibly reduce sun spots, it’s enriched with moisturising Hyaluronic Acid as well as protecting Vitamin E and UVA/UVB filters.

 

4. Colour Correction:

For those seeking extra coverage and colour correction, the NIVEA Cellular LUMINOUS 630 Anti Dark-Spot Tinted Fluid Double Corrector SPF 20 provides natural coverage to help conceal existing sun spots. It is formulated with Thiamidol to help visibly reduce sun spots in 4 weeks* and even out your complexion. The innovative tinted fluid is also enriched with Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and smooth your skin.

*Clinical evaluation, 48 women, 12 weeks

5. The Importance of Daily Sun Protection:

Whilst the above NIVEA Luminous630 routine contains products that provide high SPF to shield skin from the sun’s rays, keeping this protection topped up throughout the day is key to maintaining skin health and radiance.

The NIVEA SUN UV Face Specialist Dark Spot Control Fluid SPF 50+ provides immediate protection against UV rays. This light and non-greasy sunscreen is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E, providing a refreshing effect and a smooth skin feeling. Formulated with NIVEA’s patented Thiamidol ingredient, it helps to visibly reduce existing and prevent new sun spots from appearing. The handy size can be kept in your bag to keep your sun protection topped up whilst on-the-go.

Warning: make sure you use products containing Thiamidol no more than 4 times a day. Avoid contact with the eyes.

Facts Overview

Sun spots facts

Appearance: Sun spots manifest as flat, brown or black pigmented patches on the skin.

Causes: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.

Prevention: Involves consistent use of sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade.

Treatment: Various skincare products containing ingredients like retinoids, antioxidants, and exfoliants.

Sun spots elsewhere on your body?

To address sun spots in your body care routine, incorporate the NIVEA Luminous 630 Anti Stretch Marks & Dark Spots Body Cream into your routine. This product contains Thiamidol to help visibility reduce sun blemishes and pigment spots in 4 weeks.

Consistency is key in achieving optimal results. Adopting this NIVEA skincare routine can help reduce visibility of sun blemishes and pigment spots in 4 weeks**, promoting an even skin tone and a luminous complexion.

**Consumer test, 87 participants

What is Thiamidol and why is it good for sun spot?

NIVEA's patented Thiamidol ingredient is the result of 10 years meticulous research and 50,000 tested molecules. Thiamidol works at a cellular level to rebalance melanin production and treat dark spots at the root cause. 

By acting on existing pigmentation and promoting a more even skin tone, Thiamidol contributes to a brighter, clearer complexion and supports the overall goal of reducing the impact of sunspots on the skin.

Explore the Luminous630 Range
Summary

Sun spots at a glance

Sun spots, or solar lentigines, are pigmented patches on the skin caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays. While generally harmless, they can affect the overall appearance and radiance of the skin. By adopting protective measures, such as regular sunscreen use, wearing protective clothing, and following a dedicated skincare routine, people can effectively minimise the risk of sun spot development and maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Products for sun spots

Other related advice

FAQ - Sun spots

What causes sun spots to develop on the skin?

Sun spots, or solar lentigines, primarily result from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. The UV rays stimulate the production of melanin, leading to the formation of pigmented patches on the skin.

Are sun spots harmful, or do they pose any health risks?

Sun spots are generally harmless and not associated with health risks. However, their presence may indicate cumulative sun damage, and it’s advisable to monitor your skin for any changes and consult a dermatologist if needed

Can sun spots be prevented?

Yes, sun spots can be prevented by adopting sun-safe practices. This includes using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding excessive sun exposure, especially during peak hours.

Do sun spots go away on their own?

Sun spots often do not fade on their own. However, with proper sun protection and targeted skincare, their appearance can be reduced over time. Consistent use of sunscreen and specialised skincare products can help in minimising the visibility of sun spots.

Can makeup conceal sun spots effectively?

While makeup can provide temporary coverage for sun spots, it does not address the underlying cause. A dedicated skincare routine, including the use of products designed to reduce pigmentation, is more effective in the long term.

At what age do sun spots typically appear?

Sun spots are commonly associated with ageing, and they tend to become more noticeable as people get older. However, their development can be accelerated by prolonged sun exposure, meaning they can appear at any age, especially in people with significant sun exposure without proper protection.

What are sun spots, and how do they differ from freckles and moles?

Sun Are flat, brown, or black spots that develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin due to prolonged UV exposure. Freckles are small, light brown spots that are results of an uneven distribution of melanin and are usually genetically determined and darken with sun exposure. Moles, on the other hand, are growths on the skin that can be raised or flat, ranging in colour from pink to dark brown.

How can one distinguish between sun spots, freckles, and moles based on appearance?

Sun spots typically appear as flat, well-defined, and darker areas on the skin, often found in sun-exposed areas like the face and hands. Freckles are generally smaller, lighter in colour, and may be more randomly distributed. Moles can vary in size, colour, and texture, and they may be raised or flat.

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