What should you know about body freckles?

Freckles, also called ephelides, form when pigment-producing cells make more melanin in small areas. Sunlight can make existing freckles darker and can bring out additional spots on exposed skin. They may occur on the face, shoulders, chest, arms, back, or legs, especially in people whose skin tends to freckle. Freckles are generally flat and evenly coloured; a raised, scaly, painful, or rapidly changing mark may be a different type of lesion.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin, reapply it as directed on the product, and add shade, clothing, and a hat during strong sun. Avoid picking or applying unprescribed lightening products because irritation can deepen uneven pigment. A dermatologist can compare spots with magnification and discuss options such as an IPL Photofacial or Picosecond Laser Treatment when appearance is the main concern. Results vary, and treated pigment can return with further sun exposure.

Arrange a prompt skin assessment if one spot changes in size, shape, colour, or surface, or if it repeatedly crusts, bleeds, hurts, or fails to heal. Seek earlier advice when a mark looks unlike your other freckles or is difficult to monitor on the scalp, back, or another hard-to-see area. Take clear photographs in consistent lighting so changes can be discussed.

Ask whether the marks look like freckles, whether any need dermoscopic examination, and which sunscreen and pigment treatment suit your skin tone. Ask how to prepare for treatment, what temporary darkening or irritation might occur, and how follow-up checks will be arranged.