Freckles and How They Differ From Other Skin Spots
Freckles and How They Differ From Other Skin Spots
Freckles are multiple, flat, spots on the skin due to uneven distribution of melanin (skin pigment) in those areas. They are usually about the size of a matchstick head and are reasonably uniform in colour. They are usually situated on sun-exposed areas of the skin, including the face, neck, arms, and shoulders and usually darken after sun exposure. Usually, freckles start to occur at a very young age. Freckles most commonly occur in people with lighter or fairer skin types, and in those who have a genetic predisposition to developing freckles.
What Are Freckles?
Some people have extra patches of coloring (or "pigment") under their skin. They're commonly called freckles, but doctors know them as "ephelides." You have them because of the genes you were born with.
Freckles often show up during childhood, and you may continue to get more until you're in your 20s. People with fair skin or red hair are most likely to have them.
If your freckles are because of your genes, they will be:
Natural freckles don't need treatment. They're not a sign of a skin problem. As you get older, they may get lighter on their own or go away entirely.
If you don't like how your freckles look, treatments can help fade them. These include chemicals like alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), as well as lasers and cryotherapy (skin freezing.) A dermatologist will need to decide which treatment is best for you.
You should see a doctor if your freckles:
The Effects of the Sun
The harmful rays of the sun can make your freckles darker and more noticeable. This is more likely if you have light skin.
Too much sun may also cause your skin to become:
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher can protect your skin in the sun.
To try to smooth and clear your sun-damaged skin, a dermatologist can prescribe a special cream like retinol, a form of vitamin A. Chemical peels or laser treatments are also options to clear skin damage that you get from the sun.
