Freckles are small flat round spots usually uniform in color and darker than the surrounding skin. They appear as a result of repeated sun exposure. Freckles can begin to develop on the skin starting from the age of about 2. Though some causes of freckles can be genetic, it is the repeated sun exposure that initiates their bloom on the skin. Freckles are not cancerous and it is not medically necessary to have treatment for removal. Getting rid of freckles is an elective procedure.
There are two types of freckles: simple freckles called ephelides and sunburn freckles called solar lentigines. Getting rid of freckles will depend on the type of freckle. Freckles appear as a result when cells called melanocytes generate increased amounts of melanin (pigment producing substance). The melanin then collects abnormally in specific areas of the skin. Frequently exposed sun areas such as face, chest, back, shoulders, arms and hands will exhibit freckles.
The treatment of choice to rid oneself of freckles is IPL or laser treatment. Both types of treatment use wavelengths of light directed at the darkened pigment. Since melanin absorbs this light, the laser “burns off” the pigmented areas. The body then breaks down and heals the area of thermal injury, erasing the freckle from the skin. 2-6 treatments are generally needed to clear an area of concentrated freckling. Costs for treatment can range from $300-$1500 per session. Side effects can include redness, crusting and bruising for a week or longer depending on the type of laser treatment used.
Additional methods are available to lighten freckles. These include chemical peels and lightening agents. Chemical peels can gradually lighten freckles. Deeper peels are more effective but they have a longer recovery period. Retinol or bleaching solutions work to reduce the appearance of the freckles. The bleaching agents do not bleach the skin as much as inhibit the production of melanin. The skin as a whole tends to lighten when using this method, so dramatic results are not always achieved. Topical solution such as Retin-A while lightening freckles may also cause irritation to the skin.
Sunscreen should always be used when trying to get rid of freckles. Since the sun increases the number and shade of the freckles a SPF of 30 or higher should always be used. Sun exposure should be avoided when possible. |
