Freckles are flat, small spots of increased pigment that develop in response to sun exposure. They range in color from tan to dark brown and are rarely larger than the head of a pin. According to Dr. Lawrence E. Gibson of MayoClinic.com, freckles are nearly always benign and are most common in people with lighter skin tones. Although getting rid of freckles is rarely medically necessary, many people choose to do so for cosmetic reasons.
Retin-A
Most over-the-counter and prescription lightening creams are not very effective against freckles, according to The Patient's Guide, as these creams typically bleach surrounding skin in addition to hyperpigmented areas. Creams containing Retin-A, however, work by normalizing pigmentation, which can help fade existing freckles and prevent new ones from forming. Drugs.com cautions that Retin-A may cause skin irritation in some people and make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Anyone undergoing treatment with Retin-A should wear sunscreen at all times.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy involves the use of a high beam light to remove freckles. The light is directed into the skin, where it breaks up the melanin responsible for giving freckles their color. Dr. Eric F. Bernstein of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine says that green laser light is especially effective at getting rid of freckles and other brown spots. Laser therapy rarely causes significant discomfort, but it may require more than one session to completely fade freckles.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels involve the application of an acid and other chemicals to the skin to burn away damaged and discolored tissue so that healthy, lighter skin can grow in its place. DermaNetwork.org explains that the depth of the peel determines how effective it will be at removing freckles, with superficial peels typically only lightening freckles and deeper peels restoring the skin to its natural tone. Side effects, pain and recovery time depend on the depth of the peel used.
Sunscreen
In addition to preventing skin cancer, a condition more common in people who freckle, wearing sunscreen every time you head outdoors will help prevent new freckles from developing and may lighten existing freckles. The Nemours Foundation states that freckles may sometimes fade when not exposed to the sun's UV rays. This is why some freckles seem to disappear during the winter months. MayoClinic.com recommends wearing a wide brim hat and sun-protective clothing to minimize sun exposure.
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