Freckles on skin: what to know

Freckles are usually flat, tan-to-brown marks with a fairly even colour. They can become more visible after sunlight stimulates pigment production and may fade when exposure decreases. They can occur on the face, arms, chest, shoulders, and other exposed areas. Freckles are different from a raised mole, although the two can coexist. Pigment after acne, eczema, burns, or other irritation may also resemble freckles.

A clinician considers the mark's history and appearance. If a spot is new or unlike your other marks, an in-person assessment is more useful than trying to identify it from a description alone.

Use shade, protective clothing, and broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed areas. Reapply according to the label, particularly after water exposure or sweating. Choose a gentle cleanser and moisturiser, and avoid rubbing or using strong bleaching mixtures without medical guidance. If you are seeking cosmetic fading, a dermatologist can discuss IPL Photofacial or Picosecond Laser Treatment after confirming that the spots are appropriate for treatment.

Seek a skin assessment if a mark changes quickly or develops an irregular edge, several colours, a firm or scaly surface, persistent itch, pain, crusting, or bleeding. A sore that does not heal also needs review. These signs do not establish a diagnosis, but they make self-monitoring alone unsuitable.

Ask how the spots were identified, which changes should prompt a return visit, how to build a sun-protection routine, and whether a cosmetic procedure could irritate your skin.