While freckles tend to develop in people with fair skin, red or blonde hair, and blue or green eyes, age spots happen later in life regardless of skin type. But both are caused by an accumulation of melanin in the skin, the pigment that makes us tan. Both will also likely darken in the summer with sun exposure and fade in the winter months.

A Prevention PlanThe best way to avoid these unsightly spots is with a prevention plan. Use a sunscreen with at least a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 as a part of your daily skin care regimen, and wear protective clothing when outside. Age spots will concentrate on the backs of the hands, so be sure to apply sunscreen there, as well as your face.

When you do notice freckles or age spots gaining ground, the following options may be beneficial.

Lighten NaturallyLemon juice is a natural lightener. Used twice a day, it will help fade age spots and freckles. Apply fresh lemon juice to skin with a cotton ball and allow it to dry before applying sunscreen and makeup.

ExfoliateHuman skin constantly sloughs old dead cells as new ones are produced. With aging, the skin tends to lose some of its ability to eliminate these skin cells. Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) loosens the glue that holds old skin cells in place. When used regularly, AHA helps eliminate old cells and excess melanin. Many skin care products contain AHAs, but they can also be found in fruits and milk. Apply a mask of sour milk and allow it to dry before rinsing, or, for a more aromatic option, make a fruit mask of pureed ripe papaya. This fruit contains papain, an enzyme that helps dissolve dead skin cells.

Supplement with CTaking a vitamin C supplement helps reduce skin’s sensitivity to the sun and can prevent melanin buildup.

Talk to a Skin Care ProfessionalEstheticians can provide products and treatments to help reduce or eliminate skin spots. Discuss your spots with a skin care professional to determine the best options for you.