Expert Tips on How to Get Rid of Freckles

Long been associated with skin damage. From tanning, burns, darkening, wrinkles to even cancer, sun's UV rays can prove to be really destructive. One such damage they cause to the skin is freckles. These are basically brown spots which appear on the face due to prolonged sun exposure. But, their appearance is visible only with age. However, this skin problem can be hereditary as well. Read on to know more about this skin problem and how can it be treated.

What are freckles?

Freckles are small brown spots that appear on the face or
arms or on the sun-exposed parts of the body. They appear
because of the cumulative UV rays exposure for a long
period of time. However, they also occur genetically and
can appear in children as well.

Are they dangerous?

Typically, appearance of freckles is perfectly normal, and
not dangerous at all. However, if you notice a freckle
changing in shape or size, then it is important to show it to
your dermatologist. He or she will check for any possible
skin malignancy (a tumor or a cancer).

How can you prevent them?

The only way to prevent freckles is to avoid getting out in
the sun. Sun rays are the biggest cause of freckles, so you
need to protect yourself from them. Avoid the sun between
the 10 AM-3 PM. And, if at all you want to go out, cover
exposed areas as much as possible and wear a sunblock
cream. Look for a sunscreen with at least SPF 30+ with
both UVA and UVB protection, and remember to apply it
every four hours. Also, apply it at least 30 minutes before
leaving your house, so that it has penetrated well.

How can you get rid of them?

Freckles are typically very resistant to treatment. But
luckily, now there are many ways to manage them. A
dermatologist will suggest you several treatments for your
freckles. Take a look at a few of them:

1. Bleaching Creams

Bleaching creams containing compunds such as alpha-
arbutin, hydroquinone, glycolic acid and tretinoin are
somewhat effective in reducing the freckles. However, their
effect is limited, so do not expect dramatic results from
these simple creams!

2. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels use higher percentage of glycolic or lactic
acid to get a better effect than bleaching creams for your
freckles. They are typically done every ten days for around
6-10 sessions, depending on your skin. Dermatologists also
recommend bleaching creams along with the peels for
improved results. Side effects are usually limited to a little
bit of redness. But, make sure you do not neglect your
sunblock with these creams.

3. Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is highly effective for removing excess
pigments, as they gently exfoliate the darkened skin layers.
This method can remove your freckles quicker than
traditional remedies.

4. Intense Pulsed Light

Intense Pulsed Light or IPL is a broad-spectrum light that
gently targets the pigments or melanin in your skin without
any side effects. You need around 10 sessions to get an
optimal result. And, as an extra benefit, your skin will look
rejuvenated, giving you a lovely natural glow.

5. Q-Switched Laser

The Q-switched laser is a newer modality that has been
proven to selectively target melanin, causing specific
destruction of only your freckles. Within 2-3 sessions, you
can get your desired results. However, after this treatment,
you may find some redness and crusting, but this usually
resolves after a few days.

It is always advised to look for precautions before the
problem actually occurs. And, remember do not step out of
your house without using a sunblock!

Culled from bollywoodshaadis