Freckles are tan or light brown spots on your skin. They’re made of clusters of skin cells that contain the pigment melanin. Unlike moles, which are raised, freckles are flat. Freckles aren’t painful or harmful.
No one is born with freckles, even though they may be genetic. They’re triggered by sun exposure. If you have freckles and want to get rid of them, here are seven ways to consider.
Sunscreen won’t get rid of existing freckles, but it helps prevent new ones. You should wear sunscreen year-round, even when it’s cloudy.
The American Academy of Dermatology offers these tips:
- Sunscreen should have an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Apply sunscreen to bare skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Laser treatment uses pulses of focused, intense light to target damaged areas of skin. There are different types of lasers. According to a 2015 study, the 1064 Q-Switched Nd YAG laser is effective for treating freckles. Study results showed treatment with this laser lightened more than 50 percent of freckles in 62 percent of participants.
Laser treatment is generally safe. The risk of scarring is low. However, other side effects may occur, including:
- itching
- swelling
- redness
- crustiness
- peeling
- infection
- changes in skin color
If you have a history of oral herpes, you may need to take an antiviral medication before undergoing laser treatment. That’s because the laser can stimulate a flare-up of herpes around your mouth.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe other medications or creams before the procedure. They may also recommend avoiding certain medications or products before the procedure. Let your doctor know about any medications or creams you’re using.
It may take up to two weeks to recover from laser treatment. Multiple sessions are usually needed to achieve desired results.
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