Okay, I need to know—are there any products (preferably budget, of course) that actually lighten dark spots on the skin—my years in the sun are starting to show with a couple of small spots (I REFUSE to call them age spots :) ) on my face. They’re not super noticeable, but I’m kind of self conscious about them. Has anyone had luck with any products that actually help lighten these spots or even skin tone all the way around?

yes, try Porcelana cream or any of the ones containing hydroquinone.

Since they can cause a real reaction test on a small age spot, Far AWAY from the face. See if you react badly first. Then if you don’t react, apply as per directions, it will take weeks to work. this isn’t instant.

Skin poducts with Retin A are supposed to help as are products with glucosamine and Vit C serums are also promising if you need help with spots on the face.

I was reading about this in Paula Begoun’s book Don’t go to the cosmetics counter without me, latest edition. She is pretty good on the chemistry.

Also anything with a high (8 - 10%) alpha hydrox helps too - it helps the skin to ‘turn over’ more quickly. 

Of course there’s always Susan Lucci’s derma-thingie.  :) (sold at Ulta I think)

Vita K Solution. They have one that you can put all over your face to fade age spots and blotchiness. It works great as long as you keep using it. They also have a dark eye circle cream that works pretty well, you can also dot it on age spots to fade them.