Get Rid of Age Spots: Pros and Cons of Bleaching Cream

Age spots can become a nuisance to those who want to keep a youthful look. No matter what a person does, they might not be able to avoid seeing these spots on their hands, arms and chest area. Once the spots emerge, it is tempting to use a bleaching cream to reduce their appearance and restore the skin to its original coloration. As with any medication or treatment, there are pros and cons to using bleaching cream. Patients should understand both arguments to make the best decision for themselves.

Pros of Using Bleaching Cream

Unlike many other anti-aging treatments to get rid of age spots, bleaching cream is readily available online and in drugstores. This accessibility makes the cream easy to add to a medicine cabinet. Bleaching creams are available in a variety of strengths and concentrations, helping the patient control the amount of bleaching to be done to the skin. The cream is generally safe and effective for those with minor age spot concerns. Some natural products are available for those who are hesitant to use chemical filled bleaching products, though their effects may not be as dramatic. The bleaching cream to get rid of age spots can work quickly and it can provide patients with a product which can be easily controlled and only applied to the affected areas.

Cons of Using Bleaching Cream

Using bleaching cream to get rid of age spots can also be problematic when done without the advice or help of a professional. Some bleaching creams available over the counter can be too harsh on the skin, causing irritation, redness and even a slight burn to the skin's outer layers. Occasionally, the bleaching creams available in stores may also be too gentle, having little effect on the age spots. Bleaching creams with hydroquinone are thought to contain mercury, which might be harmful and toxic to the body, increasing a patient's risk of developing cancer. Patients who have darker skin tones might also find the bleaching creams change the tone of their skin, making the skin lighter than it was before. This lighter skin may be more noticeable than the age spots were before the treatment. Patients who do not use the bleaching cream correctly may also find their age spots are more noticeable, rather than less apparent. As with any medication, following the instructions on the package is crucial for obtaining the best results.

When using bleaching cream at home, it's best for a patient to consult with a dermatologist or skin care specialist first. In this way, the patient can assess whether the age spots are truly age spots or if they require other forms of treatment. Some patients find that using natural remedies to get rid of age spots can be helpful at first, without causing harm to the skin and without causing unwanted skin discoloration. Some dermatologists may also have more concentrated forms of bleaching creams to help those with darker age spots.