How to remove age spots

Solar lentigines usually refer to age spots, which may be caused by factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, slowed metabolism, reduced antioxidant capacity, endocrine disorders, and hypertension. Treatments such as laser therapy, curettage, chemical peels with fruit acids, or medication can be used under the guidance of a physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. UV Radiation

Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays allows UV light to penetrate the skin's surface, damaging skin cells and activating melanocytes, leading to melanin deposition and the formation of age spots. It is advisable to avoid prolonged direct sun exposure in daily life. Laser treatment can be performed under the guidance of a professional doctor. This method uses the principle of selective photothermolysis, where specific wavelengths of laser light target the pigmented areas. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigment, generating heat that breaks the pigment particles into tiny fragments, which are then naturally eliminated through skin metabolism, achieving the effect of spot removal. The typical reference cost for laser treatment ranges from 200 to 5,000 yuan per session. Improvement is generally visible after about 2–4 weeks, although side effects such as redness, swelling, and pain may occur.

2. Slowed Metabolism

With aging, metabolic rate decreases and the cell renewal cycle lengthens, making it harder for waste products and pigments to be expelled from the body. These substances accumulate on the skin surface and form age spots. Regular moderate exercise helps promote blood circulation and metabolism. Curettage can be performed under the supervision of a qualified physician. This procedure physically removes diseased tissue from the skin surface using a fine scalpel or curette to gently scrape away the affected epidermal layer until healthy tissue is exposed. The typical reference cost for curettage is 100–300 yuan per session. Improvement can usually be seen within 1–2 hours, but potential complications include hyperpigmentation and scarring.

3. Reduced Antioxidant Capacity

The body’s antioxidant systems—such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione—decline in function, reducing the ability to effectively neutralize free radicals. This leads to increased oxidative stress, damaging skin cells and promoting the formation of age spots. In daily life, increasing intake of antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries, green tea, and nuts is beneficial. Chemical peeling with fruit acids (alpha hydroxy acids) can also be administered under medical supervision. This involves applying a solution containing a certain concentration of fruit acid to the skin, causing controlled exfoliation of the outer layer of dead skin. It also stimulates regeneration of collagen and elastic fibers in the dermis, helping to fade age spots. The typical reference cost for fruit acid peels ranges from 1,000 to 2,000 yuan per session, with improvement usually noticeable after 7–12 days. However, possible side effects include infection and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

4. Endocrine Disorders

Chronic sleep deprivation, high stress levels, and unhealthy lifestyle habits can all trigger endocrine imbalances. Hormonal dysregulation disrupts normal skin metabolism and pigment elimination, thereby promoting the development of age spots. Symptoms may include irregular menstruation, insomnia, and anxiety. Treatment may involve medications such as Xiaoyao Pills, Liuwei Dihuang Pills, or progesterone capsules, prescribed according to medical advice.

5. Hypertension

Hypertension may result from genetic factors, poor lifestyle habits, or kidney disease. High blood pressure can impair microcirculation in the skin and reduce nutrient supply, affecting normal skin metabolism and repair functions, thus contributing to age spot formation. Symptoms may include dizziness and headaches. Patients should follow medical advice and take antihypertensive medications such as Valsartan tablets, Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide tablets, or Irbesartan tablets.

It is recommended to seek care at a reputable medical facility and undergo procedures under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals to ensure both effectiveness and safety. The key lies in daily protection and maintaining a healthy lifestyle: avoiding prolonged UV exposure, eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and engaging in regular physical activity to support metabolism and overall health.