Brown spots, also known as age spots or liver spots appear on areas that are constantly exposed to sunlight, like the face, back of hands and upper arms. People who have a fair complexion are more prone to developing brown spots, although brown spots are also common in people having wheatish or dark complexion. The pigment in our skin called melanin is made up of cells known as melanocytes. When the skin is exposed to the rays of the sun, there is a concentration of melanin which results in the appearance of brown spots on face and hands. Causes of Brown Spots The most common cause of brown spots is over exposure to sunrays. Prolonged and excessive exposure to sun's ultraviolet rays causes concentration of melanin which leads to the appearance of dark spots, freckles and age spots. Certain medications and regular use of birth control pills can also cause brown spots to appear on the skin. Some other causes of brown spots on the hands or face are pregnancy, aging, liver diseases, hormonal imbalance, stress and genetics. Remedies for Brown Spots Over-the-Counter Options Over-the-counter topical ointments containing kojic acid, hydroquinone, azelaic acid, etc., can be very helpful in getting rid of brown spots. However, you should remember that OTC options takes months to show results. You should also use a broad spectrum sun screen with an SPF of above 15 to prevent the appearance of brown spots. Apply a good quality hand cream containing ingredients like salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, coffee berry extract, green tea extracts and vitamin C before going to bed. Microdermabrasion You can also consider microdermabrasion for getting rid of brown spots on skin. In this process, tiny particles of micro crystals, generally aluminum oxide, is sprayed across the surface of the skin. This sloughs away the uppermost layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresh glowing skin. Microdermabrasion not only helps in getting rid of brown spots, but also reduces the appearance of enlarged pores and fine lines and wrinkles. Intense Pulsed Light Therapy Another new technology that helps in eliminating brown spots on skin is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. The laser beam is passed through the skin, which is absorbed by the melanin. After the treatment, the brown spots flake off and you get beautiful blemish free skin. Chemical Peels Chemical peels can also be used to get rid of brown spots. A mild concentration of acid like glycolic acid is applied on the skin for 4 to 5 minutes. After this a neutralizer is applied which slouches off the dead skin to reveal skin that is free of pigmentation. You need to go in for 5 to 6 sessions to completely remove brown spots. Home Remedies for Brown Spots There are also natural ways in which you can lighten brown spots. However, you need to remember that these home remedies will require weeks and months of regular application for you to see noticeable results.

• Onion and Apple Cider Vinegar: Finely grate a red onion and extract its juice. Mix this onion juice with 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Apply this mixture on the brown spots with the help of a cotton ball and rinse with water when dry.
• Lime Juice and Yogurt: Take 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice with a tablespoon of yogurt. Apply this on your brown spots and let it dry. Rinse your hands thoroughly with cold water.
• Papaya and Tomato Juice: Rub a paste made by combining 2 tablespoons of pureed papaya with a tablespoon of tomato juice on the brown spots. Keep this paste on your hands for 10 minutes and then rinse with water.
• Honey and Cinnamon: Apply a mixture of 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon powder. Regular application will not only reduce the appearance of dark spots but will also help you in attaining radiant skin.
• Horseradish and Lemon Juice: Make a mixture of 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of grated horseradish and apply this on the spots. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and wash it off with water. Regular use can help in fading brown spots.
• Milk and Mustard Powder: Apply a mixture of 3 tablespoons of milk with 1 tablespoon of mustard powder on the brown spots. The lactic acid present in milk helps to lighten the skin.

If you are using home remedies to treat brown spots then do not expect immediate fading of these spots. Although all the home remedies are pretty effective, it takes time to eliminate brown spots. Usually brown spots on hands are harmless, but if you notice any change in the texture, size, color or shape of the brown spots, then you need to consult a dermatologist.