How to Combat Age Spots with Skincare Spoiler: You Don’t Have to Laser Your Face Off to See Results
Let’s talk about the one skincare concern that sneaks up on us like glitter after a birthday party: age spots. You know, those little flat brown patches that suddenly appear one day on your cheeks, hands, or forehead and have the audacity to stick around like uninvited guests at brunch?
Yeah. Those.
If you’ve noticed them showing up—and let’s be real, most of us do at some point—you might be wondering: Can I actually fade these spots with skincare, or is this just another skincare myth sold in a $200 bottle? Good news: you can absolutely fight age spots with the right skincare routine, no snake oil necessary.
Let me walk you through it, friend to friend. I’ve tested, researched, and (accidentally) over-exfoliated in the name of clearer skin. So here’s everything you need to know about how to combat age spots with skincare—without panic-Googling at 2 a.m.
What Exactly Are Age Spots?
Let’s start here, because understanding your enemy is step one, right?
Age Spots 101
Also known as: liver spots, sun spots, or hyperpigmentation
Caused by: sun exposure, aging, hormonal shifts, inflammation
Most common on: face, hands, chest—aka, anywhere you forgot to SPF
Age spots happen when melanin (your skin’s pigment) gathers in one area, usually after years of sun exposure. Think of them as your skin’s very sassy reminder that SPF is not optional.
Step 1: Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable (Seriously)
You can’t even think about fading age spots if you’re still exposing your skin to UV rays unprotected. It’s like mopping the floor while someone walks through in muddy boots—pointless.
What to Look for in an Anti-Aging SPF
road-spectrum (protects against UVA + UVB)
SPF 30 or higher
Non-comedogenic and lightweight, especially if you’re layering makeup on top
My Holy Grail SPFs
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 – Lightweight, great for sensitive skin, doesn’t leave a white cast
Lancôme UV Expert Aqua Gel SPF 50 – Fancy, sheer, and so easy to wear under makeup
FYI: You have to reapply. Every. Single. Day. Especially if you’re outdoors. I don’t make the rules—I just enforce them. 🙂
Step 2: Brighten with Vitamin C (Your Skin’s Morning Coffee)
If age spots are dimming your glow, vitamin C is the glow-up in a bottle. It’s a powerful antioxidant that helps:
Fade dark spots
Even out skin tone
Protect your skin from further damage
Best Vitamin C Serums for Age Spots
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic – Pricey but iconic. My skin looks like I actually drank water all day.
Allies of Skin 20% Vitamin C Brighten + Firm Serum – Potent, fast-absorbing, and effective AF
Apply it every morning before sunscreen. You’ll see brighter skin in just a few weeks—no Instagram filter needed.
Step 3: Exfoliate Like You Mean It (But Don’t Go Overboard)
You know that dull top layer of skin where the age spots chill? You need to exfoliate it away. Gently. Over time, exfoliation fades those pigmented patches and lets fresh skin shine through.
Two Types of Exfoliation
1. AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
Perfect for dry or normal skin
Glycolic Acid: Small molecule = deep penetration
Lactic Acid: Gentler, great for beginners
2. BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids)
Best for oily or acne-prone skin
Salicylic Acid: Clears pores and evens out tone
Luxurious Exfoliators I Swear By
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads – A two-step miracle. I use these when I want instant results.
Sunday Riley Good Genes – Smells weird, works wonders. My skin’s smoother after one use.
Important reminder: Start slow—2–3 times a week. Overdoing it can irritate your skin and make things worse (been there, regretted that).
Step 4: Fade Dark Spots with Targeted Treatments
Now let’s get specific. There are ingredients specifically formulated to target hyperpigmentation and age spots—and they actually work.
Top Ingredients for Fading Age Spots
Niacinamide: Calms skin and fades dark spots
Kojic Acid: Natural brightener
Licorice Root Extract: Soothes and lightens gently
Tranexamic Acid: A newer hero in brightening routines
Hydroquinone (available in prescription or OTC versions): Works fast but can be irritating
My Fave Targeted Spot Fighters
Murad Rapid Age Spot Correcting Serum – Works like a charm with vitamin C and niacinamide
Naturium Tranexamic Topical Acid 5% – Affordable and shockingly effective
Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense – For the serious skincare nerds out there (raises hand)
You can layer these under moisturizer or serum, but always check the instructions. Some don’t play nice with acids or retinol.
Step 5: Retinol = Your Skin’s Reset Button
I couldn’t write a guide on how to combat age spots with skincare and not include retinol. It literally tells your skin to renew itself, which means:
Faster cell turnover
Fewer visible age spots
Overall smoother, more youthful skin
Start Here
Shani Darden Retinol Reform – Smoothing, effective, and doesn’t wreck your skin barrier
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer – Budget-friendly and beginner-approved
Medik8 Crystal Retinal – A gentle but potent option with a creamy texture
Pro tip: Only use at night, and always pair with sunscreen in the morning. Retinol without SPF = disaster waiting to happen.
Step 6: Moisturize and Repair Your Barrier
You can’t treat pigmentation on angry, dry, or sensitive skin. Think of moisturizer as your skin’s therapist—it keeps everything calm and collected so the actives can do their thing.
What to Look For
Ceramides
Peptides
Squalane or other nourishing oils
No fragrance or alcohol (especially if your skin’s already irritated)
Moisturizers I Trust with My Life (Okay, Face)
Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream – Pricey, but gives me baby skin
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair – Affordable, soothing, never clogs pores
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream – Thick, nourishing, and fun to apply (yes, I said fun)
A healthy moisture barrier means better results and less irritation from all those hard-hitting ingredients you’re using. It’s the glue that holds your routine together.
Step 7: Don’t Forget the Hands, Neck, and Chest
Quick question: Have you ever looked at someone’s face and thought, “Wow, youthful!”… only to catch their hands or neck and realize their skincare stops at the jawline? 🙃
Age spots love to show up in these areas too. So apply all your spot-fighting magic—SPF, vitamin C, retinol, moisturizer—to your neck, chest, and hands as well. They deserve the love.
Bonus: In-Office Treatments That Pair Well with Skincare
While skincare can do a lot, sometimes you need a little help from a pro. These are a few dermatologist-approved options that pair beautifully with your at-home routine:
Chemical Peels – Speed up cell turnover and fade pigmentation
Laser Treatments (like IPL) – Target spots directly with light
Microneedling + PRP – Collagen boost with some brightening perks
If you’re considering these, chat with your derm first. And remember: skincare is still essential before and after professional treatments for long-term results.
Final Thoughts: Your Spots Don’t Define You—But You Can Fade Them
Here’s the deal: age spots are normal. Totally. Freaking. Normal. But if they bug you? If you want clearer, more even skin? You absolutely have options.
And you don’t need an entire suitcase of products to get started. Build a smart, effective routine using:
SPF (every single day)
Vitamin C (morning)
Exfoliation (2–3x/week)
Targeted spot treatments
Retinol (night)
Moisturizer (always)
Love for your neck, chest, and hands
Your skin will thank you. Your confidence will thank you. And future you (with the glowing skin)? She’s already cheering.
Now go glow up, and don’t forget the SPF 😉