Ambi Skincare Fade Cream

Experts say that hydroquinone, the active ingredient in Ambi Skincare Fade Cream, is the gold standard for reducing the appearance of age spots. It works by slowing down melanin production (the component in skin responsible for creating color). Ambi Fade Cream contains 2 percent hydroquinone -- the maximum amount allowed in an over-the-counter formula. It also contains alpha hydroxy acids that slough off dead skin cells, in turn brightening the overall skin tone and allowing the hydroquinone to more effectively penetrate the skin. Experts praise Ambi's affordable price tag. Users at Drugstore.com, MakeupAlley.com and Amazon.com say that it really does work, although it can take a couple of months of consistent use to see real results. Even then, a prescription-strength formula (4 percent) may be needed to remove spots completely. It's important to note that hydroquinone can increase sun sensitivity -- increasing the likelihood of developing even more age spots -- so it is imperative to wear a sunscreen while using this formula. (Note: Ambi Fade Cream does contain a slight amount of sunscreen, but not enough to provide adequate protection.) If you prefer a more basic wrinkle cream that focuses more on prevention than cure, reviewers recommend Olay Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum (*Est. $20 for 1.7 oz.), which is chock full of antioxidants. Ambi Skincare Fade Cream is available in Normal Skin and Oily Skin formulas and should be discontinued once a normal skin tone is achieved.

We turned to beauty experts at Allure and O, The Oprah magazines for insight into the effectiveness of Ambi Skincare Fade Cream. Although we didn't find any testing of the formula, more than 100 users combined at Drugstore.com, MakeupAlley.com and Amazon.com weigh in on their personal results.