Freckles: What Causes Them And When One Should Go To See A Doctor

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Freckles are small light brown spots on a skin. They are usually found on the face and arms. Freckles are very common, and typically, they don’t require medical attention. These cute spots are more often seen in the summer, especially among people with light or red hair and light skin.

Freckles are almost harmless, so there is no need to treat them. As with many other skin conditions, it is better to avoid the sun as much as possible. Dermatologists advise using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This is particularly important because people who freckle easily are at greater risk of developing skin cancer.


What causes freckles

Causes of freckles include exposure to the sun and genetics. No one is born with freckles. Skin contains specific cells called melanocytes that release the pigment melanin. The latter is responsible for the color of your eyes, skin, and hair. Melanin also works as a kind of natural sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays, but it can’t prevent sunburn all on its own. Active sun exposure makes melanocytes to produce a large amount of melanin. Freckle is a build-up of melanin on your skin.

Some freckles are permanent; others are more visible in the summer because of increased sun exposure and fade during winter. Freckles that are hereditary may disappear as you get older. Freckles triggered by sun damage tend to increase with age.

When to visit a doctor

Freckles are not cancerous, but they can be mistaken for skin cancer. Experts say that excessive sun exposure is a risk factor for both melanoma and freckles. The former is more common in people with lighter skin than in people with dark skin.

If you see changes in color, size, or shape of your freckles, visit your dermatologist. The doctor will be able to determine whether it is a medical problem.

Although freckles are benign, many people want to get rid of them. Treatments, such as laser therapy and chemical peels, are effective but may lead to serious side effects. No matter what remedy you are going to use, it is important to apply sun care after the procedures to prevent new ones.