Freckles

Definition

Freckles are brownish spots on the skin which appear early in life and increase in number during summer months and fade in winter. Freckles mainly occurs due to precipitation of pigments on the upper layer of skin or exposure to sun. Exposure to the sun causes to produce more melanin.

Since melanin is accumulated in the upper layer of the skin, you might want to consider skin lightening and peeling. When the skin is sensitive to ultraviolet rays, freckles are more prone to that type of skin. Freckles come in the category of skin disorders but not a skin disease.

Hydroquinone has also been a very popular treatment for the removal of freckles and combating skin discoloration, however it can irritate the skin. Kojic acid, discovered in Japan in 1989, is a natural product derived from fungi. It is gentle on the skin and very effective in treating skin discolouration and freckles.

Causes of Freckles

The common causes and risk factor's of Freckles include the following:

• Precipitation of pigments on the upper layer of skin.
• Freckles are common among those with lighter skin who sunburn easily.
• Sunlight also causes freckles already present to become darker.
• Freckles are influenced by genetic factor also.
• The basic cause of freckles is special cells in the skin that produce a pigment called melanin.
• Exposure to sun.

Symptoms of Freckles

Some sign and symptoms related to Freckles are as follows:

• Moles are often produced at the affected area of skin.
• The skin cancer may be a possible symptom of freckles.
• There may be blood or mucus in the stool.
• Diarrhea is another common symptom which is accompanied with freckles.
• Freckles are small, flat, pigmented spots on your skin.
• There may be change in the skin color and shape.
• Weight loss.

Treatment of Freckles

The methods for treating Freckles:

• Several lasers, especially ones that produce a green light, can lighten and eliminate freckles safely and effectively.
• Sunscreens may be used to prevent enhancement of the freckling caused by sun exposure.
• The use of hydroquinone and kojic acid are one of the beneficial treatment for freckles. They may help in lightning freckles if they are applied consistently over a period of months.
• One of the most used treatments for the removal of freckles is the use of bleaching agents.
• Chemical peels are used to remove age spots, freckles, discoloration, wrinkles and fine lines. They generally help to make the skin smooth and firm and also help in curing freckles gradually.