Freckles, also known as ephelides, are 2 mm to 4 mm tan, discrete specks or spots which develop under sun-exposed surfaces, usually occurring on the face, especially in the cheeks and nose area.

Microscopically, the freckle is depicted by increased melanin production. They are first noticed during childhood and are common in fair-skinned individuals.

The spots develop randomly on the skin, especially after repeated exposure to sunlight and particularly in persons of fair complexion.

Freckles vary in color -- they may be red,yellow, tan, light-brown, brown, or black -- but they are always darker than the skin around them since they are due to deposits of the dark pigment called melanin.

Predisposition to freckles is genetic, though exposure to sunlight is a factor in how many appear. The gene for freckling is related to the presence of red hair.

Genetic Origin?

Based on recent genetic research, it has been suggested that this gene had Neanderthalic origins. (The basis of the claim is the age of the gene; this is not in itself proof, since Homo erectus pre-existed the Neanderthals.) Freckles are small flat brown marks arising on the face and other sun exposed areas. They are seen in children and in fair skinned people especially those with red hair who have an inherited predisposition for them.

On the face and other areas exposed to the sun they are an inherited characteristic. These small brown marks are most often seen in fair skinned people, especially those with red hair. Known as ephilides, the colour is due to pigment accumulating in the skin cells (keratinocytes).

Ephilides are prominent in summer but fade considerably or disappear in winter as the keratinocytes are replaced by new cells. As the person ages this type of freckle generally become less noticeable.

Apart from sun protection, no particular treatment is necessary.