Freckle
Freckle
Freckle (/ˈfrɛk(ə)l/), from the Old Norse word freknur, meaning "spots on the skin", is a small, usually light brown, spot on the skin that is often caused by exposure to the sun.
Definition
A freckle is a small, flat, circular spot on the skin. The spots are the result of an increase in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Freckles are usually light brown, but they can be red, yellow, tan, light-brown, brown, or black. They are usually smaller than the size of a pencil eraser.
Causes
Freckles are caused by an increase in the production of melanin. This can be triggered by a number of factors, including genetic predisposition and exposure to the sun. People with light skin and hair are more likely to develop freckles.
Types
There are two basic types of freckles: ephelides and solar lentigines. Ephelides are flat, light brown spots that typically appear during the sunny months and fade in the winter. Solar lentigines, also known as age spots or liver spots, are small, dark patches on the skin that do not fade in the winter.
Treatment
While freckles are harmless, some people choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons. Treatments for freckles include laser treatment, chemical peels, and topical creams that lighten the skin.
Prevention
Prevention of freckles primarily involves protecting the skin from the sun. This can be achieved by wearing sunscreen, avoiding the sun during peak hours, and wearing protective clothing.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Freckle
- Wikipedia's article - Freckle
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