Over -the-Counter Treatments for Sunspots

Sunspots are areas of the skin that appear lighter or darker than normal. A fungus called tinea versicolor is the cause of one type of sunspot, while excess sun exposure causes another. Over-the-counter dandruff shampoos containing 1% selenium sulfide often will cure sunspots caused by fungal infections. Apply a bit of the shampoo to the affected area before bedtime, even areas other than the scalp. Leave it on overnight and wash it off in the morning. Treatment usually takes three to four days. If you have sensitive skin or if the shampoo irritates your skin with overnight use, try washing it off after 20 minutes to one hour. Note that even if treatment kills the fungus, your skin may not return to its normal color for many months. If a selenium shampoo doesn’t help, consider using Nizoral® A-D, a popular anti-dandruff shampoo that contains ketoconazole, an antifungal drug. You can also try over-the-counter antifungal creams containing clotrimazole (brand names Lotrimin® AF) for these infections. To lighted dark sunspots caused by sun exposure use a treatment containing 1.5% to 2% hydroquinone in. Some of these products also include sunscreens and moisturizers. Check with your doctor before choosing any over-the-counter treatment for your skin condition. For both types of sunspots, be sure to use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.

References: Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.Drug Facts and Comparisons, Facts and Comparisons, 1999.Murray, M., J. Pizzorno. Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Prima Communications, Inc., 1998.This answer prepared 7/27/99.