Summer is all about fun in the sun, but it is only fun until sun spots appear! I am sure at that point most of us start looking for tips on how to remove sun spots naturally.

Sun Spots, also known as dark spots or age spots, are caused by prolonged sun exposure and other factors such as aging, stress, genetics, hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, acne, and vitamin deficiencies. Especially in sun-drenched areas like Los Angeles, avoiding the sun completely is impractical.

So, how do you remove these stubborn dark spots after a long summer? Thankfully, many natural remedies can help. In this post, we’ll explore how to remove sun spots naturally using ingredients you might already have at home, offering a cost-effective and gentle alternative to medical treatments.

DISCLAIMER: Consulting a doctor is strongly recommended before self-treatment.

How to Remove Sun Spots Naturally

01. Algenist BLUE ALGAE VITAMIN C™ Dark Spot Correcting Peel

As its name suggests, Algenist is all about algae. Through years of research, they discovered Vitamin C from

Spirulina off the coast of California. The blue algae are naturally sourced and sustainably produced, so the results are 100% pure L-Ascorbic Acid (aka high-quality Vitamin C), which means 100% effective, 100% natural, and 100% vegan. BLUE ALGAE VITAMIN C Peel is proven as an effective way to remove sun spots. It is a resurfacing and exfoliating peel that reduces the appearance of dark spots for a more even skin tone and a brighter complexion. After three uses, I started seeing a difference; my skin looked brighter and smoother. It is a gentle peel, so it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin like me. It doesn’t leave redness behind like most peels. There’s a slight tingle at first, but that goes away.  

Tip: Use twice a week for 20 minutes for best results. It’s gel-like, so I suggest using a face mask brush.

02. The Spot Cream from Musely

The Spot Cream

The Spot Cream from Musely is a prescription dark spot correcting cream packed with 12% Hydroquinone, 2% Niacinamide, and 1% Hydrocortisone (for the initial 2 months). It effectively fades dark spots, brightens the complexion, reduces inflammation, and improves skin structure. Formulated by dermatologists and freshly compounded at the pharmacy, it ensures maximum efficacy. After cleansing, apply one pump to the hyperpigmented area and gently massage. It can be used as a spot treatment, all over the face, or as directed by your doctor.

Tip: Follow with a gentle hydrating moisturizer and wear a mineral-based sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 daily to protect your skin.

03. Aloe Vera

Studies show aloe vera plants can lighten sun spots. Aloesin is an active compound found aloe vera plant that helps improve sun spots and pigmentation if applied daily for 15 days. This at-home treatment is a cheap and non-toxic herbal remedy for removing sun spots on the face.

DIY Aloe Vera Face Mask: Take the gel from an aloe vera plant leaf and add some freshly grated cucumber, lemon juice, and 1 tsp of sandalwood powder. Apply this mixture to the skin and let it dry completely. Leave on your skin for 10 minutes. When dry, slowly scrub off and wash off with cold water.

04. Honey

Honey has been used in skin products for years. It is full of antioxidants.  It is believed to promote new cell growth and may help fade sun spots when applied to the skin.  Honey is suitable for all skin types. Honey is so mild that it can be used daily or until you see results.

DIY Honey Exfoliator: Apply the honey with your fingertips, rub it into the skin, and leave it on for 20 minutes.

Tip: For best results, use raw or organic honey. 

05. Licorice Extract

According to a review from 2009,  licorice extract contains a natural compound that helps to even out pigment and lighten sun spots.  Licorice extract lightens the skin by dispersing melanin.   

DIY Licorice Face Mask: Mix one tablespoon of powdered licorice with one tablespoon of yogurt in a small bowl. Apply the mixture evenly to the face and neck. Wash off with warm water after 30-35 minutes.

06. Cryotherapy

If your sun spots are too stubborn for at-home treatments, try Cryotherapy.  Cryotherapy removes sun spots and other skin lesions by freezing them off with a liquid nitrogen solution, and Cryotherapy takes just a few minutes and is generally well-tolerated. This professional treatment on how to remove sun spots on the face is toxic-free. Nitrogen is a naturally occurring element, and liquid nitrogen is just nitrogen in its gaseous form, chilled to a very low temperature.

How to Identify Sun Spots

Sunspots, also known as dark spots or age spots, are common skin discolorations that appear on areas exposed to the sun, like your face, hands, and arms. Here’s how to identify them:

1. Color and Shape: Look for flat, oval spots that can be light brown to dark brown.
2. Size: They can be as small as a freckle or cover larger areas.
3. Texture: Sunspots have the same texture as the rest of your skin and don’t change shape.
4. Location: They usually show up on sun-exposed areas like the face, shoulders, and arms.
5. Age Factor: Sunspots are more common in people over 40 due to years of sun exposure.

If you notice any changes in these spots, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist. For a deeper dive into sun spots, check out this article on how to spot sun spots.

Sun Spot Prevention

Preventing sunspots is easier than treating them. Here are some simple tips to keep your skin clear:

The best way to prevent sunspots is by using sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it before going outside and reapply every two hours. You can also choose makeup products that contain sunscreen. Apply sunscreen before going outdoors and reapplying it every two hours.

Wear protective clothing. Wear hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses to protect your skin from UV rays.

Make sure to moisturize! Keep your skin hydrated to prevent it from drying out and getting damaged. Use a good moisturizer daily.

Drink plenty of water, have a healthy and balanced diet, remove any makeup before you go to sleep, apply sunscreens regularly, consume antioxidant-rich foods like Your Super, do yoga and meditation, and a little skincare hygiene will help you to get healthy skin tone without any spots or scars.

*Your doctor should evaluate any dark spots on your skin or change in appearance.

PIN THIS FOR LATER:

Sunspots can be a stubborn skincare problem, but you can make them lighter with the right approach and natural remedies. Ingredients like honey and licorice extract can help fade dark spots and even out your skin tone. Always do a patch test with any new treatment to avoid irritation. Protect your skin from more damage by wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen and protective clothing. Using these natural methods can help reduce sunspots and bring back your skin’s natural beauty.

Which one of these at-home treatments on how to naturally remove sunspots from the face will you try?