Freckles
What are freckles?
Freckles are pigmented spots brought out by sunlight. They usually
are on the face, neck, and shoulders. They occur mainly in
fair-skinned people and are inherited. They start around age 5,
and although they fade somewhat each winter, they become prominent
each summer.
How can I take care of my child?
Sunscreens cannot prevent them, and lemon juice cannot bleach
them. Therefore, the child who has freckles must learn to live
with them. Family and friends can help by referring to the
freckles as special and attractive. They never turn into skin
cancer. People with freckles need to be extra careful about sun
overexposure.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, MD, author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
Published by
RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2002-03-11
Last reviewed: 2008-06-09
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
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