Freckles Caused by Sun: How Light Affects Them

Freckles form when pigment-producing skin cells make concentrated areas of melanin. Ultraviolet light can stimulate that pigment, making existing freckles stand out more and bringing out additional spots on exposed skin. They are most often seen on the nose, cheeks, shoulders, arms and upper chest.

Freckles may fade when exposure decreases, but sun protection is still worthwhile even when the spots look attractive. A tan or sunburn can add skin damage and make it harder to judge whether a particular mark is changing.

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin and reapply as directed on the product label, particularly after swimming or sweating. Add a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, protective clothing and shade. Avoid deliberate tanning and tanning beds.

If you want to reduce visible freckles, first have the pigmentation identified. A clinician may discuss an IPL Photofacial or Picosecond Laser Treatment, with advice tailored to your skin tone and recent sun exposure. Temporary redness, sensitivity or uneven pigment can occur after energy-based treatment, so follow aftercare instructions.

Make an appointment for a mark that changes in size, shape or colour, develops an irregular border, becomes painful or persistently itchy, bleeds, crusts or does not heal. Sun exposure can explain why freckles darken, but it should not be used to explain away a clearly changing lesion.

Does this pigment pattern fit freckles? What protection is practical for my daily routine? Would a light-based treatment be appropriate after examining my skin?