What is the difference between freckles and pigmentation

Here Dr Glass and leading dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams takes us through the different types of pigmented lesions and marks on your skin so you know what's what. They are caused by overproduction of melanin pigment by the melanocytes, which is in direct response to UV light exposure. As we develop and grow, our 'freckles' can change to become solar lentigo; a flat, brown mark, explains Dr Glass. They are not cancerous and can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the forearms, back of the hands, shoulders and face.

Solar lentigines that appear on the back at a later age have been linked to sunburn in this area in childhood. Sun avoidance, use of a broad spectrum, high factor sunscreen, and appropriate clothing lowers the possibility of new lesions emerging in the future.

It occurs on areas of over-sun exposed skin such as the face, neck and forearms. These treatments are usually done in the fall. IPL improves the color and texture of your skin. It can undo some of the visible damage caused by sun exposure. The treatments are spaced weeks apart and usually done in a series of You can apply make-up immediately after, but sunscreen is a must. Chemical peels are another great professional treatment to help lift hyperpigmentation.

Again, these are best done in a series of spaced a month apart. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website.

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Performance Performance. It is worth noting that these treatments are not cheap and you may well need a course of them to get the desired results. However, they are likely to be far more effective than any topical products promising to tackle the issue. Of course, one thing we always worry about when it comes to any kind if pigmentation is the risk of skin cancer. Luckily, both freckles and sun spots are benign, and as long as they are stable you have no need to worry.

If you notice anything changing, check it out with your GP. And remember, choosing one of the best sunscreens is the way to go. Now you know the difference between freckles and sunspots, find out what the best sunscreens that won't leave you streaky are. Type keyword s to search.