What should you know about wrinkles and freckles?

Wrinkles form when skin becomes less elastic and repeated expressions fold the same areas. Freckles are small, flat areas of increased pigment that often become more visible after sunlight and may fade when exposure decreases. They can occur together because ultraviolet light contributes to both lines and uneven pigmentation, but each has a different appearance and treatment approach.

Use broad-spectrum sun protection, seek shade, and reapply sunscreen as directed, especially during outdoor activities. A hat and sunglasses add physical protection. Keep skincare gentle and moisturising, and avoid picking or aggressively scrubbing pigmented spots. A clinician can distinguish freckles from other pigmented marks and discuss options such as IPL Photofacial or Picosecond Laser Treatment when appropriate for your skin tone and diagnosis.

Arrange a skin review if a pigmented mark changes in size, shape, colour, or sensation, or if it bleeds, crusts, or does not heal. Seek prompt care for a rapidly changing or painful lesion. An assessment is also useful before light-based treatment, since freckles and other marks may look similar but need different management.

Which marks are freckles, and which need monitoring? What sun-protection routine suits my skin? Would a light-based treatment be appropriate, and what temporary colour or irritation changes should I expect?