As one ages, they may notice small, pigmented age spots on their skin. Fortunately, some ways slow down their progression, including peels, and topical creams. But, one natural remedy that’s popular for its flair to fade age spots is apple cider vinegar (ACV). It’s a popular home remedy with diverse uses, including skincare. One can explore its uses to reduce the appearance of age spots and important tips for safe and effective use.
Reasons to use apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which is believed to be the key ingredient that helps in lightening pigmentation. The acid is known for its mild exfoliating properties, which can help to remove dead skin cells and promote the turnover of new, healthy ones. This natural exfoliation process can gradually fade the appearance of age spots over time.
Further, ACV also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a useful remedy for managing various skin concerns. Here, it is important to note that results may vary from one person to another. And while ACV can help fade age spots, it is not a permanent solution as it may not completely remove them.
Natural ACV application
Using apple cider vinegar to treat age spots is simple and inexpensive. One can incorporate ACV into daily skincare routine to target age spots naturally.
1. Apple cider vinegar and water solution
The most basic method is to dilute apple cider vinegar with water and apply it directly to the affected areas. This helps to minimize the risk of irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Requirement
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of water
- Cotton ball or pad
Instruction
- Mix the apple cider vinegar and water in equal parts to create a diluted solution.
- Soak a cotton ball or pad in the mixture and apply it directly to the age spots.
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process twice a day (morning and night) for several weeks to see noticeable results.
2. Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice
Lemon juice is another natural ingredient known for its skin-brightening properties due to its high concentration of vitamin C and citric acid. Combining it with apple cider vinegar can create a powerful, natural management option for age spots.
Requirement
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Cotton ball or pad
Instruction
- Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and lemon juice in a small bowl.
- Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it directly to the affected areas.
- Leave the application on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
- Use this mixture once a day, preferably in the evening, as lemon juice can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
Important note – After the application, make sure to use sunscreen, as both apple cider vinegar and lemon juice can increase the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays.
3. Apple cider vinegar and honey mask
Those with dry or sensitive skin, mixing apple cider vinegar with honey can create a gentler option for age spots. Honey is known for its moisturizing and soothing properties, making it an excellent addition to balance the acidity of ACV.
Requirement
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey
Instruction
- Mix apple cider vinegar and honey until well combined.
- Apply the mixture to the specific age spots using a clean cotton ball or fingertips.
- Leave the mask on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times per week for best results.
4. Apple cider vinegar and onion juice
Onion juice contains sulfur compounds and antioxidants that can help lighten dark spots and even out skin tone. When combined with apple cider vinegar, it creates an effective mixture for reducing age spots.
Requirement
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of fresh onion juice
- Cotton ball
Instruction
- Blend or grate an onion to extract its juice.
- Mix the onion juice with apple cider vinegar.
- Soak a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it to the age spots.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off with water.
- Repeat once a day for several weeks.
Tips for safely using apple cider vinegar
While apple cider vinegar is generally safe for topical use, it is acidic and can cause irritation or burns if used improperly. Following certain tips can ensure its safe use.
Always dilute ACV
Whether using it by itself or in combination with other ingredients, diluting apple cider vinegar with water or another substance (like honey) is crucial to avoid irritation
Do a patch test
Before applying ACV to the face, do a patch test on a small area of skin to rule out any adverse reaction.
Avoid sun exposure
ACV and other ingredients, such as lemon juice, can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. So, wear sunscreen before stepping outdoors.
Moisturize
Apple cider vinegar can be drying to the skin, so it’s important to follow up with a gentle moisturizer after each application to maintain the skin’s suppleness.
Results of using ACV
The effectiveness of apple cider vinegar for fading age spots varies from one person to another. Typically, one may begin to notice a slight difference after a few weeks of consistent use. However, full results can take several months, depending on the severity of the age spots and how one’s skin responds to the topical application.