Introduction
Ephelides, commonly known as freckles, are small benign pigmented spots that mainly appear in people with fair skin. They usually develop in childhood and are directly linked to sun exposure. They are not a disease, but a genetic, sun-induced pigmentation trait.
Symptoms
- Small light brown to golden brown flat spots (macules)
- Usually no more than a few millimetres in size
- Appear on sun-exposed areas
- More pronounced in summer
- Partially fade in winter
- Not raised, not painful, not itchy
Causes
- Genetic predisposition
- Fair skin type (fair skin, fair or red hair)
- Repeated sun exposure
- Increased melanocyte activity without an increase in their number
Diagnosis
- Clinical skin examination
- Analysis of the distribution and appearance of the spots
- No signs of concern or abnormal change
Treatments
- Suitable lightening skincare
- Daily sun protection
- Medical IPL (intense pulsed light)
- Medical pigment lasers
- Superficial chemical peels
- Medical LED as an add-on
Management
Clear information on the benign nature of freckles
Rigorous sun protection
A dermatological assessment before any cosmetic treatment
Follow-up tailored to the patient’s expectations