How to treat age spots that are itchy and raised?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the treatment methods for itchy and raised age spots mainly include conservative management, physical therapy, medication, traditional Chinese medicine, and surgical treatment. In addition, patients should follow medical advice for standardized treatment during the course of therapy, undergo regular follow-up examinations, and monitor changes in the lesions. It is also important to maintain a regular lifestyle, eat a balanced diet, and consume more foods rich in vitamins in daily life.
Generally, the treatment methods for itchy and raised age spots mainly include general management, physical therapy, medication, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and surgical treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. General Management
Maintain clean and dry skin at the affected area. Gently wash with lukewarm water and avoid using irritating soaps or shower gels. Scratching must be strictly avoided to prevent skin damage and secondary infection. When going outdoors, take proper sun protection measures such as wearing wide-brimmed hats or applying gentle sunscreen to reduce ultraviolet stimulation on the affected area and prevent symptom worsening.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapies directly target the lesion tissue and commonly include cryotherapy, laser therapy, and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. Cryotherapy induces necrosis and shedding of abnormal tissue through low temperature. Laser therapy uses photothermal effects to remove abnormal tissue and promote skin repair. Intense pulsed light helps reduce local inflammation and relieve symptoms of itching and swelling.
3. Medication
Medications can alleviate symptoms and inhibit disease progression. Under medical guidance, patients may use topical agents such as tretinoin cream, fluorouracil ointment, or oral medications like levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets. Topical drugs act directly on the affected site, while oral medications help reduce itching. The choice depends on individual conditions.
4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
According to TCM, age spots are associated with poor circulation of qi and blood and inadequate nourishment of the skin. Treatment often involves blood-nourishing, dryness-moistening, and blood-activating, stasis-resolving herbal formulas, such as Danggui Yangxue Wan (Angelica Blood-Nourishing Pills) and Xuefu Zhuyu Wan (Blood Mansion Stasis-Removing Pills). Moxibustion can warm and unblock meridians, promoting local blood and qi circulation, which may assist in relieving itching and improving skin condition.
5. Surgical Treatment
If age spots are significantly raised, severely itchy, or show signs of potential malignancy, surgical intervention may be necessary. Common procedures include excision and curettage, which directly remove the lesion tissue. Postoperative wound care is essential to prevent infection and support healing.
In addition, during treatment, patients should follow medical advice strictly, undergo regular follow-up visits, and monitor changes in the lesions. Maintaining a regular lifestyle, balanced diet, and increased intake of vitamin-rich foods can enhance skin resistance. If ulceration, bleeding, or rapid enlargement of the lesion occurs, prompt medical consultation is required to adjust the treatment plan.
