Ever wondered why some people seem to be naturally dotted with freckles while others never develop them at all? It is a common question — even among people who have freckles themselves, especially when the marks become more noticeable in summer.
Freckles are small, flat patches of tan or light-brown pigmentation on the skin. They are linked to genetics and occur when the skin produces extra melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of your skin and hair.
They are completely harmless and most often appear on areas that regularly catch the sun, including the face and shoulders.
For many people, freckles are now seen as a sought-after beauty feature. Some even draw them on with make-up during the warmer months, while a number of beauty brands have launched products designed specifically to create the look of faux freckles.
UK-based GP Dr Sermed Mezher has explained what causes freckles to appear and why sunlight plays such a key role in making them stand out.
Why do freckles appear on faces in summer?
According to Dr Mezher, there are different types of freckle-like marks, including solitary lentigines, which can develop over a person’s lifetime and may be a sign of sun-related skin damage.
However, the freckles most people usually refer to are common in those with lighter skin and red or ginger hair. These are known as ephelides.
Dr Mezher said these traditional freckles tend to form during childhood and are also triggered by exposure to the sun — raising the question of why some people develop them while others do not.
“Well, because of variations in the MC1R melanocortin gene. This variant tends to cause melanin to clump rather than form an even tan, so when exposed – leads to increased freckles that tend to fade throughout the winter months.”
Can freckles be removed?
While many people adore their freckles and celebrate them during the summer months, others may be seeking ways to reduce their appearance on their skin.
The Cleveland Clinic states that freckles cannot be entirely eliminated, but their appearance can be diminished through topical products, laser treatments and cryotherapy. They recommend consulting a dermatologist to explore the most suitable treatment options.
Freckles can also be kept at bay by shielding your skin from sunlight, applying SPF 30 or higher sun cream, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and steering clear of peak UV hours between 10am and 4pm.
