Freckles are common in some people. These refer to skin cells that contain the pigment called melanin. Melanin is also a chemical produced by skin cells called melanocytes. The condition involves presence of melanocytes that overproduce melanin granules, which are responsible for the change in color of the outer skin cells. The following are the causes, symptoms, and home remedies for freckles.
Causes
Melanin and sunlight cause freckles. According to Wonderopolis, exposure to sunlight trigger the appearance of freckles. As per the publication, the ultraviolet radiation coming from the sun causes the melanocytes to increase melanin production and this leads to the appearance or darkening of freckles. Along with sun exposure, other causes of freckles include genetics, hormone abnormalities, and having a fair skin. As per the publication, melanin production is high in a person with fair skin due to less amount of melanin to absorb ultraviolet light.
Signs and Symptoms
Freckles present various symptoms. According to NDRI, these include a change in the skin color and shape, diarrhea, crampy abdominal pain, weight loss, moles that appear on the affected skin area, and presence of blood or mucus in the stool, among others.
Home Remedies
While treatment options like bleaching creams, cryosurgery, chemical peels, intense pulsed light therapy, tretinoin, and laser treatment can be done to get rid of freckles, home remedies can also be done to help manage the condition.
Lemon Juice and Sour Cream
Lemon juice and sour cream are two remedies for freckles. According to Top 10 Home Remedies, lemon juice is capable of lightening the skin and bleach the dark spots. To prepare as per the publication, the person applies fresh lemon juice on the affected skin and mildly massages the area, leaving it on for ten to 15 minutes before rinsing it with lukewarm water. The remedy is done two times a day. As an option, a lemon is cut in half and half teaspoon of sugar is sprinkled on it. Then, the skin is gently scrubbed with it for few minutes before rinsing with water. This is done once or twice a week regularly.
Meanwhile, sour cream contains lactic acid, which is beneficial to the skin, especially those with sensitive skin. To perform, as per the publication, the person applies some cream on the affected skin, allowing it to dry for a few minutes. Then, it is mildly wiped off with a tissue or towel, instead of rinsing it with water. A moisturizer can be applied while the remedy does not cause dryness o skin irritation.
Tomato Juice
Another remedy for freckles is tomato juice. According to Find Home Remedy, it can lighten the skin while toning it, allowing it to have a radiant glow in about two weeks. As per the publication, the tomato is mashed to a pulp, which is applied to the areas with freckles. Then, the person uses the tip of his index finger and starts massaging the skin to facilitate absorption of the juice via the skin pores. The juice is left on the skin for 15 to 20 minutes and then washes it with water.
Rice Wine
Rice wine , also called sake, also stands as a remedy for freckles. As per Rapid Home Remedies, rice wine contains kojic acid, a by-product of the fermentation process of malting rice. The acid is used to eliminate freckles by inhibiting the action of the tyrosinase enzyme, which then reduces melanin production. The wine can be made into a mask to remove freckles and moisturize the skin. This way, it can also delay the signs of aging.
Overall, freckles are causes by exposure of the skin to the sun and ultraviolet rays. Along with the aforementioned home remedies, one can manage freckles by seeking medical consult from a health professional for proper assessment, planning, intervention, education, and evaluation.
