Age Spots (Sun Spots) on Face & Hands: Causes, Best Treatments, and Prevention (Science-Backed Guide)

February 10, 2026

Quick Summary

Age spots (solar lentigines) are flat brown patches caused by cumulative UV exposure, typically appearing after 40
They form when melanocytes overproduce melanin in localised areas after years of sun damage
Evidence-based treatments include vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide, and professional procedures - but require 3–6 months of consistent use
Prevention through daily sunscreen (especially on hands) is the most effective long-term strategy
While age spots can be significantly faded, complete removal is rare; ongoing sun protection prevents recurrence

You're washing your hands one morning and notice it: a cluster of brown spots across the back of your hand that wasn't there a few years ago. Or you're applying makeup and see new patches of pigmentation near your temples that don't fade with concealer. You haven't changed your routine dramatically. You're not spending more time in the sun than usual. Yet suddenly, these spots seem to have appeared overnight.

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Age spots are among the most common skin concerns for women over 40, and they often appear on the areas we notice most: our faces and hands.

Age spots are flat, well-defined brown patches caused by cumulative sun exposure (solar lentigines). They're not dangerous, but they can feel frustrating - especially when you're doing everything "right" with your skincare.

The good news? Understanding what causes age spots and how they respond to treatment can help you make informed decisions about whether to address them and, if so, how.

What Are Age Spots?

Age spots - also called sun spots, liver spots, or solar lentigines - are flat, brown, grey, or black patches that appear on skin that's been exposed to the sun over many years. They typically range from freckle-sized to about 1cm across, and they don't change texture or rise above the skin's surface.

The most common locations are:

Backs of hands
Face (especially cheeks, forehead, and temples)
Shoulders and upper back
Forearms
Décolletage

Despite the name, age spots aren’t directly caused by ageing itself. They're caused by cumulative sun exposure - which is why they become more visible as we get older.

See a dermatologist promptly if: A spot is changing shape, colour, or size; appears irregular or variegated; is bleeding, itching, or rapidly growing. These changes could indicate skin cancer rather than benign age spots.

Age Spots on Face and Hands: What Causes Them (The Science)

Age spots form when melanocytes (pigment-producing cells in your skin) go into overdrive in specific areas. Here's what happens:

UV exposure and melanin overproduction. Every time UV rays hit your skin, they trigger melanocytes to produce melanin as a protective response. With repeated exposure over years or decades, some melanocytes become chronically overactive. They continue producing excess melanin even without fresh UV damage, creating those concentrated brown patches.

Why age spots appear after 40. Younger skin has more efficient cellular turnover and repair mechanisms. As we age, our skin's ability to distribute melanin evenly and shed pigmented cells slows down. This means pigment clusters in certain spots rather than dispersing naturally. Additionally, decades of accumulated sun exposure finally show up on the surface.

Why age spots on hands appear earlier and are often stubborn Your hands are exposed to UV light constantly - while driving, through windows, during daily activities - yet they're one of the most neglected areas for sun protection. Hands often show signs of photoageing earlier than the face because they're frequently exposed and commonly under-protected. The skin on your hands is also thinner and has fewer oil glands, making it more vulnerable to environmental damage and slower to respond to treatment due to frequent washing.

Hormonal influences during perimenopause and menopause Declining estrogen levels may affect melanocyte activity and skin's protective barrier function, potentially making skin more reactive to UV exposure and slower to repair pigmentation irregularities. While the exact mechanisms are still being researched, many women notice increased pigmentation changes during hormonal transitions.

Age Spots vs Other Pigmentation: Why It Matters for Treatment

Not all brown spots are age spots, and treatment approaches differ significantly:

Age spots (solar lentigines)

Flat, well-defined edges
Tan to dark brown
Appear on sun-exposed areas
Don't change with hormonal cycles
Respond well to brightening ingredients and light-based treatments

Melasma

Larger, irregular patches (often symmetrical)
Triggered or worsened by hormones (pregnancy, contraceptives, HRT)
Appears on face, especially cheeks, forehead, upper lip
Can worsen with heat and visible light (not just UV)
More difficult to treat and prone to recurrence

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Appears after skin injury, acne, or irritation
Can occur anywhere on body
Often darker in deeper skin tones
Fades gradually without treatment but can be stubborn

Identifying which type of pigmentation you're dealing with matters because melasma requires different treatment protocols, and PIH can worsen with aggressive exfoliation or harsh ingredients. If you're unsure, a dermatologist can help distinguish between them.

Best Treatment for Age Spots: What Actually Works

There's no instant fix for age spots, but several evidence-based approaches can gradually fade them over 3–6 months. The most effective strategy usually combines topical skincare with sun protection, and sometimes professional treatments.

Topical skincare ingredients that help reduce age spots

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid). Vitamin C inhibits tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production. It also provides antioxidant protection against UV damage. Look for stabilised formulations with 10–20% concentration. Clinical studies suggest topical vitamin C can help improve uneven tone and reduce UV-related pigmentation over consistent use, typically showing results after 8–12 weeks.

Retinoids (retinol, adapalene, tretinoin). Retinoids accelerate cell turnover, bringing pigmented cells to the surface faster while preventing new melanin formation. They work well for age spots but require patience—results typically appear after 8–12 weeks. Start with lower concentrations to build tolerance.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Niacinamide reduces melanin transfer from melanocytes to surrounding skin cells, helping to even out tone. It's gentler than other brightening ingredients and suitable for sensitive skin. Clinical research shows improvement often appears within 4–8 weeks, depending on concentration and baseline pigmentation.

Azelaic acid This naturally occurring acid inhibits melanin synthesis and has anti-inflammatory properties. It's particularly useful for those who can't tolerate retinoids or have sensitive skin. It may also help prevent new age spots from forming.

Tranexamic acid A newer ingredient in skincare, tranexamic acid reduces melanin production through a different pathway than vitamin C. Research shows it can improve pigmentation when used consistently for 12 weeks.

Professional treatment options for stubborn age spots

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) IPL targets melanin clusters with light energy, breaking them apart so the body can clear them naturally. Results typically appear 2–3 weeks after treatment, and several sessions may be needed. Best for lighter skin tones.

Laser treatments Fractional lasers and Q-switched lasers can target age spots more precisely. They're effective but require proper aftercare and sun avoidance to prevent rebound pigmentation.

Chemical peels Medical-grade peels containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or TCA can accelerate cell turnover and fade surface pigmentation. Multiple treatments are usually needed.

The key with any treatment is consistency, sun protection, and realistic expectations. Age spots develop over years - they won't disappear in weeks.

What Results Look Like: Setting Realistic Expectations

Understanding the progression of treatment helps prevent disappointment:

Early changes (weeks 4–8) Skin brightness and clarity improve first. You may notice a more even overall tone before individual spots visibly fade.

Mid-treatment (weeks 8–16) Spot edges soften and become less defined. The contrast between pigmented areas and surrounding skin begins to reduce.

Full results (months 4–6) Gradual, progressive fading occurs. Some spots may lighten significantly while others persist but become less noticeable. Complete disappearance is uncommon, even with professional treatments.

Hands typically respond more slowly than facial skin due to thinner skin, frequent washing, and constant environmental exposure.

What Doesn't Work to Remove Age Spots (Or Often Disappoints)

Aggressive exfoliation without sun protection Scrubbing skin harshly or using strong acids without daily sunscreen can actually worsen pigmentation. Inflammation triggers more melanin production, and unprotected skin darkens further.

"Spot-correcting" products used inconsistently Using brightening serums sporadically - a few days here, a week there—won't produce visible results. Melanin production is an ongoing process; interrupting treatment means pigment has time to resettle.

Lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and DIY acids These home remedies can irritate skin and cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially on darker skin tones. The acid concentration is uncontrolled and pH levels aren't optimised for skin.

Products that promise "erasing" or "removal" Age spots are in the deeper layers of skin. Even effective treatments fade them significantly but rarely remove them completely. Marketing language promising total removal is usually unrealistic.

Expecting results without addressing hands Many people focus exclusively on facial age spots while neglecting their hands. Hands need the same treatment approach—brightening ingredients, sun protection, and consistent care.

How to Prevent Age Spots from Forming

Prevention is genuinely more effective than treatment when it comes to age spots. Here's what makes a measurable difference:

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) This is non-negotiable. Apply sunscreen to your face, neck, décolletage, and especially the backs of your hands every morning. Reapply to hands after washing. Choose formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for better protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Protection from visible light Emerging research suggests visible light (including from screens and indoor lighting) can contribute to pigmentation in some people, particularly those with deeper skin tones. Sunscreens with iron oxides provide additional protection against visible light, though UV protection remains the primary concern.

Antioxidant serums Topical antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid help neutralise free radicals from UV exposure before they trigger melanin production. Apply them in the morning under sunscreen for layered protection.

Consistent barrier care A healthy skin barrier recovers better from UV exposure and inflammation. Use gentle cleansers, avoid over-exfoliation, and keep skin moisturised—particularly on hands, which are washed frequently.

Sun-protective clothing and accessories Broad-brimmed hats, UV-protective gloves for driving, and long sleeves during peak sun hours all reduce cumulative exposure, especially if you're outdoors regularly.

Best Routine for Age Spots: Simple and Realistic

Morning routine

Gentle cleanser
Antioxidant serum (vitamin C or similar)
Moisturiser appropriate for your skin type
Broad-spectrum SPF 30–50 (face, neck, hands)

Evening routine

Gentle cleanser
Brightening treatment (niacinamide, azelaic acid, or retinoid - choose based on tolerance)
Moisturiser to support barrier function
Hand cream with brightening ingredients

At-a-glance: AM: antioxidant → moisturiser → SPF 30–50 (include hands) PM: pigment treatment → barrier moisturiser

Key principles

Start slowly with active ingredients to avoid irritation
Apply hand care products immediately after washing hands
Be patient - visible fading takes 8–12 weeks minimum
If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or switch to gentler alternatives

Who This Approach Is Best For (And Who Needs Caution)

This routine works well for:

Women experiencing new age spots in perimenopause and menopause
Those with fair to medium skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–III)
People committed to daily sun protection
Anyone frustrated by previous inconsistent results

Use caution or seek professional guidance if you:

Have deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) - you're at higher risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from aggressive treatments
Have very sensitive or reactive skin - start with the gentlest options
Are dealing with melasma, not age spots- treatment protocols differ
Have a history of keloid scarring - avoid laser treatments
Are pregnant or breastfeeding - many brightening ingredients aren't recommended

If you're unsure whether your pigmentation is age spots or something else, see a dermatologist before starting treatment. Misidentifying the type can lead to disappointing results or worsened pigmentation.

FAQs About Age Spots on Face and Hands

Can age spots be removed permanently? Age spots can be significantly faded with consistent treatment, but they can't be "permanently removed" in most cases. Even after professional treatments like IPL or laser, new age spots may form if sun protection isn't maintained. Think of treatment as ongoing management rather than one-time elimination.

How long does it take to see results from brightening products? Most people begin noticing lighter, more even pigmentation after 8–12 weeks of consistent use. Hands may take slightly longer than facial skin due to frequent washing and environmental exposure. Professional treatments may show faster initial results (2–4 weeks), but multiple sessions are usually needed.

Do age spots come back after treatment? If you return to unprotected sun exposure, new age spots will likely form, and existing ones may darken again. This is why dermatologists emphasise that sun protection must continue after treatment. Age spots are your skin's response to cumulative UV damage - ongoing protection prevents recurrence.

Are age spots dangerous or a sign of skin cancer? Age spots themselves are benign and harmless. However, if a spot changes shape, colour, size, or texture, or if it bleeds or itches, see a dermatologist promptly. These changes could indicate skin cancer. When in doubt, have any new or changing spots evaluated professionally.

Final Thoughts: Reframing Age Spots

Age spots are evidence of a life lived - days at the beach, afternoons in the garden, walks in the sunshine. They're your skin's biological response to UV exposure, not a personal failing or something to feel ashamed about.

That said, if age spots bother you, there are effective, evidence-based ways to fade them. The key is approaching treatment with patience, consistency, and realistic expectations. Skin didn't develop these spots overnight, and it won't release them overnight either.

Whether you choose to treat age spots or simply protect your skin moving forward, the most important thing is making informed decisions based on what feels right for you. Your skin has carried you through decades of experiences - treating it with kindness and science-backed care is always worthwhile.

Sources:

Jutley, G.S., Rajaratnam, R., Halpern, J., Salim, A., & Emeny, J. "Systematic review of randomised controlled trials on interventions for melasma: An abridged Cochrane review." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 70, no. 2, 2014, pp. 369–373.
Hakozaki, T., Minwalla, L., Zhuang, J., et al. "The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer." British Journal of Dermatology, vol. 147, no. 1, 2002, pp. 20–31.