There are many products available for getting rid of age spots. Most are found in the “anti-aging” category, among antioxidant-rich moisturizers and similar products. Here’s some information about this category of products. Which ones work and how?

Most fade creams contain an ingredient called hydroquinone, which works pretty well if used on a regular basis. But there are drawbacks to hydroquinone. It can cause irritation, redness, itching and swelling. The irritation can get worse with continued use, because it accumulates in the skin’s layers.

Hydroquinone is recommended for use only on very small areas and should not be used by children or teenagers. There are concerns about toxicity to the reproductive system and about skin cancer.

The concerns about skin cancer may be limited to people who use it on larger areas; for example, those who use the cream to lighten their entire complexion. The ingredient works by inhibiting melanin, the pigment responsible for the skin’s color and responsible for protecting the deepest cells from damaging UV rays. Luckily, there are safe alternatives to hydroquinone.

A recently developed compound for getting rid of age spots contains an extract from the nut grass root or common sedge grass. The roots are actually rhizomes, large underground parts similar to turmeric and other spice plants.

The underground parts of sedge grass were used historically for reducing bruises and relieving inflammation. So, the nut grass extract will not cause irritation like hydroquinone. It is actually soothing. But, it does work. It has the same action as hydroquinone. It inhibits melanin production.

As mentioned above, melanin protects deep cells from UV rays that can increase a person’s risk of skin cancer. That means that getting rid of age spots can make you more sensitive to sunlight. It is always important to use a good sun protector. Even more so after the use of a cream containing nut grass extract or hydroquinone, for that matter.

Other creams on the market contain hydroxy acids. They work through the process of exfoliation. The idea is that if the darker skin cells are exfoliated, lighter cells will be revealed. Most people are not satisfied with the results. Hydroxy acids used frequently or in high concentrations cause a great deal of irritation. Many people find the ingredient damages their complexion, rather than improving it.

Some of the better anti-aging creams are effective for getting rid of age spots over time. They work to correct pigmentation issues caused by free radical damage. You’ve probably heard of free radicals. Supplement manufacturers are always talking about the molecules.

Although no one has identified the exact process, free radical damage to the melanin producing cells is probably responsible for the melanin clumps referred to as age spots. Research has shown that some free radical damage is reversible with potent antioxidants. One of the most potent is coenzyme Q10.

In order for coenzyme Q10 to be effective for getting rid of age spots, the particles must be reduced in size. The most effective formulation is called nano-lipobelle HEQ10. That’s definitely an ingredient to look for.