Freckles

            Freckles are a group of pigmented cells contained within the skin in small groups that may overlap each other making them vary in size. They’re usually small, flat, tan or light brown. They are not harmful nor an indication of a health concern. They can be found on anyone no matter their genetic background. Freckles are predominately found on the face, although they can appear on any skin exposed to the sun.

They are most common in children with a fair complexion. Being outside in the sun may cause freckles or make them darker. People with a lighter complexion have less melanin in their skin. Melanin is a chemical produced by melanocytes that helps protect the skin from sun damage by reflecting and absorbing UV rays. The more melanin in your skin the more tanned you look. People with fair complexions have less melanin in their skin to begin with, but some of their melanocytes make more melanin when exposed to the sun so instead of getting a suntan, they sometimes get freckles. Sometime freckles fade almost completely in winter and appear again in summer. Sometimes people have freckles that can be seen year-round. But for the most part they tend to fade, as people get older.