How to Get Rid of Brown Spots: Can Home Remedies Help?

There are actually a few topical treatments for brown spots that are not only medically-approved but easy to do at home. You can get some of these creams over-the-counter but may need a prescription for stronger types. Talk to your dermatologist to pick the best one for you. If they don't work, you can also try office treatments like laser therapy or dermabrasions to get rid of the spots. ^[10]

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   Use 2% hydroquinone cream for a conventional treatment. Hydroquinone (HQ) is a common skin-lightening cream, and probably what a dermatologist will recommend for you to start with. A 2% concentration should be available over the counter without a prescription, so get a bottle from a pharmacy. Wash your skin first, then rub the cream onto your brown spots. Repeat this once per day. ^[11]

   • HQ takes about 4 weeks to show results.
   • You can also get a stronger HQ type with a prescription from your dermatologist.
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   Ask your dermatologist for a retinoid prescription. Retinoids are topical steroid creams that are used for many issues, including acne, wrinkles, and brown spots. You'll probably need a prescription for this medication, so ask your dermatologist if it's right for you. ^[12]

   • Retinoids may cause some irritation if you have sensitive skin, so stop using the cream if you experience any problems.
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   Apply 20% azelaic acid cream. This compound can lighten skin and shows some success in treating brown spots almost as well as HQ, or better in some cases. Try applying the cream once a day for 2 months to see if your brown spots improve. ^[13]

   • This cream may be more successful if you pair it with professional chemical peels, so discuss this treatment with your dermatologist.
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The main reason that dark spots form and get worse is sun exposure. The best way to stop your current spots from getting darker, and preventing new ones from forming in the first place, is protecting your skin from the sun. This might even help your dark spots fade over time. Take the following steps to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

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   Apply 30 SPF sunblock every time you go outside. Even if it’s cloudy or raining, you’ll still get some sun exposure. Every time you leave your home, apply at least 30 SPF sunblock to all of your exposed skin to protect it from UV rays. ^[14]

   • Get a sunblock designed for oily skin labeled “won’t clog pores” if you have acne often.
   • Reapply sunblock every 2 hours if you’re outside for a long time. If you’re swimming, reapply it when you come out of the water. ^[15]
   • It’s best to apply sunblock 15-30 minutes before going outside so you have the best protection possible as soon as you go out.
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   Stay inside when the sun is strongest. This might not be ideal, but it's the best way to stay safe during the sunniest parts of the day. Normally, this is between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. During these hours, the sun’s rays are strongest and could do the most damage to your skin. Try to arrange your schedule so you can stay inside during these hours and avoid exposure. ^[16]

   • If you do have to go outside, try to stay in the shade as much as you can. ^[17]
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   Cover yourself with clothing, sunglasses, and a hat on sunny days. On sunny days when you have to go outside, sunblock might not be enough. Cover your skin as much as possible with light clothes to block as many UV rays as possible. Don't forget to grab a hat as well. ^[18]

   • You can get clothes designed for UV protection. Try to find clothes labeled UPF 40 or 50 to block more UV light.
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   Install a UV-blocking coating on the driver’s side of your car. You might not expect it, but you can get a lot of sun exposure while you’re driving. Protect yourself on the road by installing a UV-blocking shield on your driver’s side window. This way, you can reduce your UV exposure on long drives. ^[19]
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