Boy, did I learn a valuable lesson. Before you buy an age spot remover, take the time to learn about the ingredients that most cosmetic companies use. If consumers are not informed, they cannot protect themselves from the damage that some of the popular compounds can cause.

The post popular for whitening, bleaching or fading is hydroquinone. The compound has been used for many years, particularly in cultures where having lighter skin was deemed more attractive or increased a person's social status.

Because of its long history of use, many companies stand by its safety. But, as most people know, history of use does not necessarily mean that something does not cause cancer. Some of the more forward thinking countries in the world have banned hydroquinone, because scientists believe it increases a person's cancer risk. But, it is still legal in the US and many creams contain it.

There are safer options for an age spot remover. Many people are unaware of these options and most cosmetic companies would be uninterested. It is a naturally occurring substance, which means that quantities are limited, which, in turn, means that the ingredient costs more.

Most whitening products cause at least some irritation. If hydroquinone is not included, mild acids are a favored choice. Exfoliants and chemical peels are also offered. These are designed to remove surface skin cells, which gradually slough off on their own, anyway. Hastening the process causes redness and irritation.

Irritation causes underlying inflammation, which can eventually degrade the skin's collagen fibers. If that occurs, the skin begins to sag and wrinkles appear deeper.

There is an age spot remover that is non-irritating, stimulates the production of strong healthy collagen and may even reduce wrinkling and sun-damage. All of these results have been seen during the testing of individual ingredients.

For whitening, the ingredient to look for is EXTRAPONE nut-grass. It was initially developed as an anti-irritant by the SYMRISE Company in Germany. Only later was it learned that the extract inhibited melanin production. Age spots are actually "clumps" of melanin.

For stimulating the production of collagen fibers, as well as new lighter colored skin cells, the ingredient to look for is Functional Keratin. Unlike other types of the protein, Functional Keratin was manufactured carefully. The protein remains fully active, so the skin's cells can use it. Keratin attracts moisture and helps to lock it into the skin's cells. This improves firmness.

Any age spot remover should contain HEQ10. It is a special formulation of coenzyme Q10 and vitamin E. The antioxidants are important for preventing damage that can be caused by sun, time and smoke, but they can also repair damage that has already occurred. HEQ10 is formulated to penetrate deeply, in order to repair as much damage as possible.

Now that you are armed with this information, you should be aware that these spots are usually caused by overexposure to the sun. Many of the other signs of aging are attributed to the sun, as well. If you choose the right age spot remover, you can repair damage done, but to prevent future damage, remember to protect your skin from the sun. It's important.

To learn more about unique ingredients for lightening skin, and other incredible substances you've probably never heard of, visit my website today.