Forget About Freckles: Treatment Options
Do your freckles have you feeling down or self-conscious? If so, there are many prevention tips and treatment options that can help reduce them in appearance or have them completely removed. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute can help with this. Learn more about how we are here to help boost your self-confidence again.
About Freckles
Freckles can be genetic and can be so light you may not even notice you have them until you are exposed to the sun. After being out in the sun, freckles on your face, hands or upper body may become more apparent. This is due to an overproduction of melanin.The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause this overproduction. Having red or blonde hair or light skin can also contribute to having freckles. If you are self-conscious about your freckles there are ways to prevent them and some treatment options.
Freckle Prevention
Preventing freckles from becoming more apparent or occurring in the first place is as simple as protecting yourself from UV rays. Even when the sun is not shining, sunscreen should be used on all exposed body parts. Not only will it protect your skin from the sun’s damaging UV rays it will help prevent freckles from appearing. Water-resistant SPF of 30 or higher should always be used before heading outside.
Freckle Treatment
If your freckles have already appeared, over-the-counter products can help reduce their appearance. These products include AHA toners, trichloroacetic acid, phenol, and acid peels. Toners and creams are topical ointments placed directly on the freckles you want to lighten. They are best suited for freckles that show even without getting any sun. Freckles that have appeared because of the sun can be treated with a retinoid cream. Retinoid cream helps to absorb the UV radiation damage.
Dermatological Freckle Treatment
A chemical peel is good for many reasons. If you are hoping to minimize the appearance of freckles, getting a chemical peel can remove the top layer of skin exposing newer undamaged skin. Therefore, freckles will be less noticeable due to this skin layer’s lack of sun damage. Chemical peels can even be used to treat precancerous areas, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and give you a healthy overall glow.
Another option is laser therapy performed by a dermatologist. This can help lighten or remove freckles. This resurfacing laser targets the water inside the skin’s layers. Once it reaches the middle layer of skin, the old pigmented cells are removed and new collagen is formed. This new collagen can mean complete removal of freckles. Cryosurgery can also be used to remove freckles. The liquid nitrogen used freezes and destroys unwanted skin cells. Different treatments may need to be used to achieve different results.
We Can Help With Freckle Treatments
The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute want to speak with you if you are ready to forget about your freckles. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois or the surrounding areas, complete this form. We will be in touch and ready to discuss freckle treatment options.