What should you know about freckles and age spots?

Freckles are commonly small and scattered, often becoming more noticeable after ultraviolet exposure. Age spots, also called solar lentigines, are usually flat tan or brown marks that remain visible over time on sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands, shoulders, and forearms. Appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. Other causes of dark patches and uneven tone include [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/), [Sun Spots](/conditions/sun-spots/), or another skin condition.

Protect exposed skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen, shade, protective clothing, and a hat. Do not scratch, burn, or use strong lightening products without advice. A clinician may recommend [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), [IPL Photofacial](/treatments/laser-and-energy/ipl-photofacial/), [Picosecond Laser Treatment](/treatments/laser-and-energy/picosecond-laser-treatment/), or [Cryotherapy (Lesion Removal)](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/cryotherapy-lesion-removal/) after examining the mark. The choice depends on diagnosis, location, skin tone, and healing considerations.

Book an assessment for a spot that changes quickly, has an irregular edge, contains different colours, bleeds, crusts, becomes painful, or remains itchy. A new mark that looks unlike nearby freckles should also be examined. These signs do not identify a diagnosis by themselves, but they make a clinical check more important.

Ask whether the mark is a freckle, sun spot, or another lesion; whether dermoscopy is needed; and which treatment is suitable for its location. Ask how to protect the area afterward and what recurrence or colour change to watch for.