Freckles

Freckles are small tan spots of melanin on the skin of people with fair appeareances, although rarely people of African ancestry also get them. Freckles primarily occurs due to precipitation of pigments on the upper surface of skin or exposure to sun. Freckles are not harmful or the symptom of a health problem. They are just pigment cells (cells which deposit color) that are contained within the skin in small batches. Freckles are flat, circular spots which typically vary in the size of the head of a nail. The spots grows randomly on the skin.

Freckles are tiny brownish spots on human skin, prepotently found on the face. These small brown marks are most often seen in fair skinned people, particularly those with red hair. Called as ephilides, the colour is because of pigment accumulating in the skin cells (keratinocytes). As we age, freckles become more illustrious and are often joined by noticeable age spots affecting many areas: the face, neck, chest, arms and hands. Instead, they begin in childhood and in further years as a result of repeated sun exposure. Freckles occur mainly in sun-exposed areas of your body, such as your nose and shoulders.

Freckles are rare on juveniles, and are very common among children aged 5 to 15 years. When the skin is sensitive to ultraviolet rays, freckles are more likely to that type of skin. Freckles come in the class of skin disorders but not a skin disease. The word "freckle" derives from the Middle English "freken," which, in turn, came from the Old Norse "freknur," meaning "freckled." They often become more conspicuous with age. Moles also may darken with repeated sun exposure or as a result of hormonal variations in pregnancy.

Children that do not create much melanin to protect their skin against harmful rays from the sun develop temporary freckles associated with childhood that usually go away upon puberty, once more melanin is properly produced. Ephilides are prominent in summer but fade substantially or disappear in winter as the keratinocytes are replaced by new cells. As the person ages this form of freckle generally become less noticeable. Occassionally Freckles overlap and run together, so they may look larger.

Causes of Freckles

The common causes and risk factor's of Freckles include the following:

• The chief cause of freckles is special cells in the skin that produce a pigment called melanin.
• Exposure to sun.
• Precipitation of pigments on the upper layer of skin.
• Freckles are common among those with lighter skin who sunburn easily.
• Sunlight also causes freckles already bestow to become darker.
• Freckles are affected by genetic factor also.

Symptoms of Freckles

Some sign and symptoms related to Freckles are as follows:

• Freckles are small, flat, pigmented spots on your skin.
• There may be variation in the skin color and shape.
• Weight loss.
• Moles are often produced at the affected area of skin.
• The skin cancer may be a possible symptom of freckles.
• There may be blood or mucus in the stool.
• Diarrhea is another common symptom which is accompanied with freckles.

Treatment of Freckles

Here is list of the methods for treating Freckles:

• The use of hydroquinone and kojic acid are one of the valuable treatment for freckles. They may help in lightning freckles if they are applied systematically over a period of months.
• One of the most used treatments for the removal of freckles is the use of bleaching agents.
• Chemical peels are used to remove age spots, freckles, discoloration, wrinkles and fine lines. They generally help to make the skin smooth and firm and also help in curing freckles gradually.
• Several lasers, especially ones that produce a green light, can lighten and eradicate freckles safely and effectively.
• Sunscreens may be used to prevent enhancement of the freckling caused by sun exposure.

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