Is It Possible to Get Rid of Freckles?

Whether you’ve had freckles since you were young or you tend to develop them after a long day in the sun, you may have wondered at one time or another what exactly causes freckles and whether you can get rid of them. At this point some folks are wondering why anyone would ever want to get rid of their freckles — they’re gorgeous.

What Are Freckles?

What exactly are freckles? According to the Cleveland Clinic, freckles are small tan, red or brown spots that are usually found on the face and the arms. If you’re curious, the scientific name for freckles is actually ephelides, per the Mayo Clinic.

Freckles are nothing more than small areas of extra pigmentation on the skin, but unlike moles or other dark skin patches, freckles are completely flat and not raised. Freckles are very common and can occur on anyone, and they’re typically nothing to be concerned about healthwise. In other words, the only skin concern about freckles is cosmetic.

3 Ways to Get Rid of Freckles

While you may not be able to get rid of freckles instantly (you’re better off turning to makeup to cover them up temporarily or — our preferred option — embracing them), research does indicate that you can fade the appearance of freckles. Keep in mind, however, that it isn’t necessarily an easy process.

1. Laser Treatments

2. Chemical Peels

3. Intense Pulsed Light Treatments

Source: L'Oréal