How to Get Rid of Freckles for Good

How to Get Rid of Freckles for Good
Photo Credit freckles. image by Anna Chelnokova from Fotolia.com

Freckles have been long touted for adding to a child's cute appearance. However, adults who possess freckles may not be as enthused over the cuteness. Freckles occur when melanin, the skin's natural pigmentation, overproduces in small areas. This forms tiny discolorations known as freckles, that become darker with excessive sun exposure. Freckle production is prominent in fair-skinned people as well as being a genetic factor. There are methods to fade and reduce freckles on the skin through home treatment and dermatology procedure, however, freckles cannot be permanently removed. Always consult a doctor first before attempting any freckle removal procedure.

Step 1

Apply an over-the-counter skin bleaching cream to your freckles. Bleaching creams contain low doses of hydroquinine and kojic acid, according to CareFair.com. These ingredients fade freckles, leaving your skin tone balanced.

Step 2

Schedule an appointment with your dermatologist for laser treatments. Laser treatments help by breaking down excess melanin below the surface of the skin, causing freckles to become darker at first, then flaking off in a couple of weeks post procedure, states CareFair.com. Freckles may return with repeated sun exposure, however.

Step 3

Apply a topical retinoid cream to your skin. Retinoids are derived from vitamin A, and work by sloughing off the topmost layers of damaged skin. According to MayoClinic.com, retinoids can safely be used with bleaching creams to eliminate skin discolorations such as freckles.

Step 4

Relax with a dermatologist-performed chemical peel. Chemical peels use natural fruit acids to burn off the outer layer of skin, according to MayoClinic.com. During the healing process, new skin begins to form, showing a smoother and clearer skin tone. Several treatments may be necessary before desired results are accomplished.

Step 5

Shedule an IPL, or intense pulsed light, treatment, suggests DermNetwork.org. IPL uses low-intensity light to stimulate skin cell regrowth and distribute melanin through the skin. IPL is a non-invasive procedure and may take several treatments before desired results are achieved.

Things You'll Need

  • Skin lightning cream

References

Article reviewed by Nikki Hopewell Last updated on: Jul 19, 2010

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