Freckle
Freckle is a small, usually light brown, spot on the skin often caused by exposure to the sun. Freckles are a common skin condition and are generally harmless. They are more frequently seen in the summer, especially among lighter-skinned people and people with light or red hair.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Freckles are caused by an increase in the amount of dark pigment called melanin and are not due to an increase in melanin-producing cells (melanocytes). The amount of melanin can be influenced by sun exposure and genetics.
Types[edit | edit source]
There are two basic types of freckles - ephelides and solar lentigines. Ephelides are flat light-brown spots that typically appear during the sunny months and fade in the winter. Solar lentigines are dark patches of skin that develop during adulthood.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
While freckles are usually harmless, they can be a sign of skin damage. Some people with freckles may wish to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Treatments to lighten or remove freckles include:
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention of freckles is mainly by avoiding the sun and using sunscreen.
See also[edit | edit source]
Freckle Resources | ||
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