Freckles

Freckles are small, brownish spots on the skin that are caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. They are a common and harmless skin condition that primarily affect people with fair skin.

Causes

Freckles are caused by an increase in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. This increase is often triggered by exposure to the sun. People with fair skin are more likely to develop freckles because they have less melanin in their skin to begin with, making them more susceptible to the effects of the sun.

Types

There are two main types of freckles: ephelides and lentigines. Ephelides are the most common type of freckle and are usually light brown or red. They often appear in the summer and fade in the winter. Lentigines are darker and do not fade in the winter.

Treatment

While freckles are harmless and do not require treatment, some people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Treatments for freckles include laser treatment, chemical peels, and topical creams.

Prevention

The best way to prevent freckles is to protect your skin from the sun. This can be done by wearing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.

See also

• Melanin
• Skin pigmentation
• Sunscreen

Freckles Resources
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