Freckles are small, flat spots on the skin that are caused by an overproduction of melanin. Melanin is a pigment that gives your skin, hair, and eyes their color. Freckles are most common in people with fair skin and light hair.
The exact reason why some people get freckles is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetics and sun exposure. People with fair skin have less melanin than people with darker skin, so they are more likely to get freckles when they are exposed to the sun. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin and cause the melanocytes to produce more melanin. This is why freckles often appear after sun exposure.
Freckles are usually harmless and do not require any treatment. However, if you are concerned about your freckles, you can talk to your doctor. There are a few different ways to remove freckles, but they may not be effective for everyone.
Here are some additional things to know about freckles:
- Freckles are more common in children and young adults. They may fade or disappear altogether as people get older.
- Freckles can be affected by hormones. They may become darker during pregnancy or times of hormonal changes.
- Freckles can be a sign of certain medical conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum. This is a rare condition that causes increased sensitivity to the sun’s UV rays.
If you have freckles, there are a few things you can do to protect them from the sun:
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, when you are outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps.
By taking these steps, you can help keep your freckles looking their best.