11 Best Age Spot Treatments, According to Dermatologists [Video]

If your age spots are really stubborn, an in-office treatment at a dermatologist can make all the difference. “I usually recommend laser treatments, as they’re effective and less likely to cause scarring than cryotherapy,” she says. “Chemical peels can work, too, but they often require multiple sessions, depending on the formula. For thicker or more stubborn spots, cryotherapy or electrocautery might be the best options.”

Is there an age spot remover that actually works?

Yes—namely, prescription-strength retinoids. “Tretinoin is a prescription-only treatment that can lighten age spots by speeding up cell turnover, helping shed dead skin and fade discoloration over time,” says Dr. Yadav. “While effective, it requires consistency and should be used under a dermatologist’s guidance.”

As far as over-the-counter products, “sunscreen is essential to protect against new age spots, while retinol, a milder form of tretinoin, can help with skin renewal,” she says. “Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that enhances sunscreen efficacy, blocks tyrosinase—an enzyme that …