Dermatologists are providing guidance on how to identify and treat age spots, emphasizing the importance of monitoring changes in skin lesions and the potential for at-home fading treatments.
Pay close attention to any spot that appears suddenly, changes in size, shape, or color, becomes raised, or starts itching, bleeding, crusting, or refusing to heal. The "ugly duckling" rule, which suggests seeking professional attention for any spot that looks distinctly different from its neighbors, is also recommended. Dermatologists can use a dermatoscope to inspect spots for patterns and features not visible to the naked eye and can perform biopsies if necessary.
Once a dermatologist has confirmed that a spot is a harmless age spot, at-home treatments can be pursued. These treatments are described as a slow process, requiring months rather than days for visible results.
Stronger topical options include prescription retinoids and azelaic acid. Over-the-counter products containing ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, kojic acid, arbutin, glycolic acid, tranexamic acid, or thiamidol may also gradually lighten age spots. Hydroquinone can be effective, but its use is best supervised by a dermatologist to avoid potential side effects like exogenous ochronosis, a difficult-to-treat blue-black discoloration that can result from prolonged overuse.