Freckles Vs Sunspots – Know These Differences Between Them

When it comes to those mysterious dark spots on your skin, you may wonder whether they are sunspots or freckles – but which exactly are they? These two skin dis-colourations are often mistaken for each other, but their appearances and causes differ significantly. While sunspots tend to be larger and much more noticeable, freckles are smaller and typically appear at a younger age.

Dealing with these spots can make anyone self-conscious, especially when they appear on the face. However, the good news is that there are steps you can take to have them removed and improve your skin’s appearance; picoway and picosure laser in Singapore are just some examples. But before we eventually get into that, we will first delve into the dissimilarities between freckles and sunspots, equipping you with the knowledge to elevate your skincare routine and care for your skin better.

What are freckles?

Freckles are those small and flat spots¹ that are typically black, brown, or tan in colour. Harmless and often seen as beauty marks, these speckles emerge due to sun exposure and genetics. Individuals with fair skin are more likely to encounter these spots, especially in areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the arms, face, and shoulders. The appearance of freckles owes itself to the increased production of melanin in the skin cells, a process further accentuated by basking in the sun’s warm embrace.

Freckles are more prevalent in people with Celtic ancestry, though they can also be found in people of African American, Asian, or Mediterranean descent. Those with fair skin, red hair, and natural blondes, as well as individuals with skin that does not tan easily, are more prone to developing freckles. Usually, these spots manifest in red to brown hues and often begin to emerge around the ages of two to three years old. Fortunately, though, freckles pose no risk of cancer and are non-malignant.

What are sunspots?

Sunspots, also referred to as solar lentigines, are flat, black or brown spots² that arise on the skin due to prolonged exposure to the sun. These blemishes typically manifest later in life and are more commonly observed in older individuals reaching their 40s or beyond, though they can be developed at any stage. Varying in size, sunspots frequently emerge on sun-exposed areas like the face, hands, and shoulders.

As time passes, sunspots may enlarge, and more of these spots could also appear. It is crucial to remember that although sunspots can increase in number and size, they are not cancerous as well.

Key differences between the two

While both may seem similar, here are the key differences that distinguish freckles from sunspots;

1. Response to sun exposure

Freckles tend to darken when exposed to sunlight and may become more noticeable during the hotter months, like summer. However, sunspots do not typically darken with sun exposure but may become more apparent due to the surrounding skin tanning.

2. Location on the body

Freckles appear in sun-exposed areas, especially in fair-skinned individuals. Sunspots, as mentioned, commonly occur in areas with the most sun exposure, like the shoulders, hands, and face.

3. Colour and size

Freckles are typically small, flat, and tan to light brown in colour. On the other hand, sunspots can be larger and have a darker hue, ranging from brown to black.

4. Age of onset

Freckles mostly appear at a young age, often during childhood. Afterwards, they may fade or become less noticeable with age. Sunspots, though they may be developed at any stage in life, tend to emerge later – typically after the age of 40.

5. Cause

Freckles are primarily influenced by sun exposure and genetics. While some may think the same for sunspots, this myth about pigmentation is far from the truth. In truth, sunspots are directly linked to prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure over the years.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between freckles and sunspots is paramount for effective skincare and treatment. Both conditions can be managed with proper sun protection, various topical treatments, and the right dermatological procedures. Embracing a comprehensive approach to skincare can empower you to take charge of your skin’s well-being, and if any skin dis-colourations raise concerns, head to a dermatology clinic for personalised advice and treatment options.

At Angeline Yong Dermatology, our expertise lies in delivering customised treatment options tailored to your individual skin needs. For more information on our related services, including a mole check or skin cancer screening in Singapore designed to assess and address any concerns related to suspicious spots and moles, feel free to reach out to us at your convenience.

References

Bastiaens, M., Hoefnagel, J., Westendorp, R., Vermeer, B. J., & Bouwes Bavinck, J. N. (2004). Solar lentigines are strongly related to sun exposure in contrast to ephelides. Pigment cell research, 17(3), 225–229. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0749.2004.00131.x

Halder, R. M., Richards, G. M. (2004, July 1). Topical agents used in the management of hyperpigmentation. Skin Therapy Letter. https://www.skintherapyletter.com/hyperpigmentation/topical-agents/

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Freckles Vs Sunspots – Know These Differences Between Them