While cute on the younger generation, freckles are often a nuisance to those over a certain age. How to remove freckles becomes a question that needs to be addressed. First we need to understand what freckles are. Freckles are the small flat brown discolorations on the skin brought on by exposure to the sun. They can begin at an early age from genetics or they can develop after many years of sun damage.
Freckle removal can be achieved through laser treatments, IPL, topical bleaching or retinoid agents and chemical peels. The most effective for actually removing freckles is laser and IPL treatments. In their own specific way these two types of treatments work by harnessing intense wavelengths of light to specifically target the darker pigments. The pigment is heated and destroyed and the body will then eliminate the spots naturally. Some lasers are not only effective in removing pigment, but can also resurface the skin to provide and overall evening and toning of the skin surface. The light treatment of choice will determine the recovery time needed.
Skin bleaching treatments technically do not bleach the skin. The chemicals in the solutions inhibit the production of melanin within the melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that produce color. By blocking this process the areas become lighter. Both the bleaching and retinoid medications need to be used in conjunction with sunscreens to assist and maintain results. At least 3 months of meticulous use of these solutions is needed for observable results.
Chemical peels work in a similar to the topical treatments. Chemical peels come in a variety of depths of skin penetration. Light chemical peels, known as alpha hydroxy acids, do not go very deep into the skin and several are needed for dramatic results. Deeper peels are just that, deeper into the skin and will provide a faster more effective result. The deeper peels also require more of a recovery after the procedure. Freckles are considered non cancerous. However, it is always beneficial to have dermatologist review your skin before undergoing freckle removal. |
