How can freckles be prevented?
Since we cannot change our own genetic component of freckling, our main prevention measures are aimed at sun avoidance and sun-protection, including • use of sunscreens with SPF (sun protection factor) 30, • use of wide-brimmed hats (6 inches), • use of sun-protective clothing (shirts, long sleeves, long pants), • avoidance of the peak sun hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and • seeking shade and staying indoors. Ideally, freckle prevention is more effective than later trying to remove freckles that have already developed. Freckle-reduction treatments are more difficult and not always satisfactory. People with known hereditary tendencies of freckling should start sun protection early in childhood. Much of the sun and UV skin damage occurs often while children are under age 18. Fair-skinned people who are more prone to freckling and sunburns are also generally more at risk for developing skin cancers. Freckles may be a warning sign of sensitive skin that is highly vulnerable to sunburn and to
