Is There an OTC Cream That's Effect in Removing Brown Spots from Years of Sun Bathing?

Age spots usually need to be removed by freezing, burning, lasering or peeling them off. No cream will really do much at all. Sincerely, David Hansen,MD

Over-the-counter are good for superficial pigment but for good long lasting results we recommend laser treatments.  We along with many others have seen good results for pigemented spots with lasers such as Fraxel Dual, Clear+Brilliant, 755nm Alexandrite, and IPL. is a good option as the panel has suggested, however lasers targeted for pigment may be a better option.  For our patients recommend for age spots the 755 Alexandrite laser.  These lasers have different down times and associated costs. Usually we recommend at least four to six treatments depending on your response at a month a part.   In addition to lasers would recommend a prescription retinol product (e.g. tr

The first step for treating brown spots is daily use of sunscreen. In some patients this can effectively fade brown spots but not all patients.  OTC topicals tend to be weaker and not as effective as physician-grade products.  In general, topicals take 6 weeks to begin to work (inhibiting melanocytes and production of melanin), so patience is the key.  However, our experience has found that long standing browns often require a more assertive treatment such as intense pulsed light or laser therapy and using topicals to maintain a good result.  Speak with an experienced office to see what options can fit your face and your budget.

Finding an over the counter product to lighten sun damage and melasma is very difficult. The appropriate product depends on the amount and depth of pigmentation. OTC products do not contain a high enough level of  lightening agent in the product, therefore there will be very limited efficacy.  There are products that can be purchased through a professional that are highly effective. Skin Medica Lytera is a tested non hydroquinone skin pigment lightener that has been shown to reduce pigmentation from sun damage and as well as melasma.  Retinols are also an effective product used in conjunction with lightning products for increased treatment.It is aways important to seek professional advice when treating the skin. 

I would encourage you to see a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon to make sure that your spots are fine prior to doing any treatment.  In addition to sunscreen, using hydroquinone 4% cream and tretinoin cream can be very effective with lightening these spots.