Freckles on Your Face: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Are you worried about those small spots on your face all across your nose or cheekbones? Freckles are a common skin concern, and while they are usually harmless, they can also be a cosmetic concern for some people. These are commonly found in sun-exposed areas, especially the face and hands. This blog helps you explore its causes and treatment options, including laser freckle removal cost, and best preventive steps. Learn how the Evenly Clinic can help you achieve your desired results.

Understanding Freckles

What are freckles?

Freckles, also known as ephelides, are small, flat, brownish spots that usually appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, primarily the face, arms, and chest. They typically range from light brown to reddish-brown. Unlike moles, freckles are not raised, and they do not typically pose any health risks. But what makes them appear?

How do freckles develop?

Freckles form when melanin, the pigment responsible for our skin colour, accumulates locally in the skin cells. When our skin is exposed to the sun, increase in melanin occurs which accumulates in the skin cells or keratinocytes leading to development of freckles, this occurs as a part of defense mechanism. If you have light or fair skin and red hair, you are more likely to develop freckles.

Types of Freckles

There are two kinds of freckles, namely Ephelides and Solar lentigines.

• Ephelides are the classic freckles we see on children and fair-skinned individuals. These freckles come in red or brown colour and appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, arms, upper chest, back, and neck. They appear in the summer and fade in the winter.
• Solar lentigines, also known as age spots or liver spots, are larger, darker, and typically remain year-round, becoming more common with age. They are brown or red and are mainly found on the face, hands, chest, forearms, shoulders, and back.

What Causes Freckles?

• Genetic Factors: Genetics play a crucial role in freckle development . If your parents have freckles, you may experience them too. The presence of the MC1R gene variant is particularly associated with a higher likelihood of developing freckles.
• Melanin: Melanin acts as a natural sunscreen, shielding your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. People with fair skin have less melanin, making them more susceptible to sunburn and freckling.
• Sun Exposure: Sun exposure is a significant factor in the appearance of freckles. Ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin, leading to the formation of new freckles or the darkening of existing ones.
• Skin Types Prone to Freckles: Fair-skinned individuals, particularly those with red or blonde hair and light-coloured eyes, are more prone to freckles. Their skin contains less melanin, making it more susceptible to UV damage and, hence, freckles.

Must Read: How to get rid of blemishes on face?

The Role of Melanin

Melanin Production

Melanin is the body’s natural sunscreen, protecting skin cells from UV radiation. When skin is exposed to sunlight, melanin functioning increases, causing a tan. However, in some individuals, this melanin clumps together, resulting in freckles.

How Melanin Affects Freckle Formation

Freckles are essentially clusters of concentrated melanin. The more melanin your skin produces in response to sun exposure, the more pronounced your freckles can become. This is why freckles tend to darken during the sunny months and lighten when sun exposure decreases.

Are freckles on face a cause for concern?

In most cases, freckles are completely harmless with no health risks. However, it’s important to be aware of any changes in your freckles. If you notice any of the following, it’s best to consult a dermatologist:

• The sudden appearance of new freckles
• Changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing freckles
• Freckles that become itchy, bleeding, or painful

These changes might indicate a different skin condition that requires medical attention.

How can I treat freckles on my face?

Freckles can add a touch of charm to many people’s complexions. But if you are looking to lighten or get rid of the appearance of your freckles, there are several treatment options available.

Here is a list of some popular freckle-reduction methods:

• Topical Creams: Topical creams that contain skin-lightening ingredients like retinoids, hydroquinone, Vitamin C, azelaic acid, arbutin, kojic acid, or licorice extract can help lighten freckles by promoting cell turnover and the shedding of pigmented skin cells. Sometimes, these topical creams can irritate sensitive skin.
• Chemical peels: It involves applying a chemical solution to the skin that helps to remove the outer layers of the skin by exfoliating and peeling off the skin, revealing new radiant skin underneath. Depending on the strength of the peel, results can range from mild to drastic. Some chemical peels include glycolic acid peel, trichloroacetic acid, mandelic acid peel and many others.
• Laser Treatment: Laser freckle removal is one of the most effective treatments for those seeking more permanent results. It works by targeting melanin production cells with a USFDA-approved Q-switched laser-concentrated beam of light, breaking down the pigment and reducing the appearance of freckles. It is a safe and effective procedure; multiple sessions may be needed to attain optimal results.

Your dermatologist will recommend the treatment based on your severity.

Must Read: Black spots on face: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Are there any natural remedies to try?

• Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a popular home remedy for lightening freckles on the face due to its natural bleaching properties. Applying lemon juice directly to freckles can help fade them over time.
• Honey and Yogurt Mask: A mixture of honey and yogurt can also be used to lighten the freckles. Honey has natural bleaching properties, while yogurt contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, getting rid of freckles.

Preventing Freckles on face

The best way to prevent freckles is to shield your skin from sun exposure.

• Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often when you are exposed to the sun or when swimming.
• Wear hats, sunglasses, loose clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and pants to protect your skin from UV rays.
• Limit exposure during peak sun hours between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Drink a sufficient amount of water and stay hydrated to keep your skin supple and resilient against sun damage.
• Include a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables that support skin health, such as berries, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and more.

Laser Freckle Removal Cost

The cost of laser freckle removal on the face can vary depending on various factors, such as the size of the treatment, the number of sessions needed, the location of the clinic, and dermatologist expertise. On average, each session can range from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 10000 per session. It is essential to consult an experienced dermatologist with extensive knowledge to get a precise estimate based on your specific needs.

At Evenly Clinic, we offer a safe and effective freckles removal treatment using the USFDA Tri-beam Premium 1064 nm, Q-switched laser technique. Whether these are results from genetics or sunny days, our team of board-certified dermatologists is here to help you achieve your desired results.

Schedule an appointment today and develop a personalised treatment plan. Our friendly staff will be happy to take care of any answers you may have.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We hope this information has been helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.