Ephelides: What You Need to Know About Freckles and Skin Health
When you see small, flat, tan or light brown spots on your nose and cheeks, especially in summer, you’re looking at ephelides, common, harmless skin pigmentation spots caused by increased melanin production in response to UV light. Also known as freckles, they’re not a disease, a sign of damage, or something to treat—just your skin’s natural reaction to sunlight. Unlike moles or lentigines, ephelides fade in winter and return with sun exposure. They’re most common in people with fair skin, red or blonde hair, and light eyes—genes play a bigger role than you might think.
What makes ephelides different from other pigmentation? They’re not caused by aging or hormonal changes. They appear early in childhood, often before age five, and become more noticeable after time in the sun. The melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and protects against UV rays in these spots is produced in higher amounts by existing melanocytes, not by an increase in cell count. That’s why they don’t raise cancer risk like abnormal moles might. Still, having many ephelides means your skin is more sensitive to UV damage, which increases your long-term risk of sunburn and skin cancer. That’s why sun protection isn’t optional—it’s essential.
People often confuse ephelides with solar lentigines, the darker, age-related spots that stick around year-round. But ephelides are temporary, subtle, and tied directly to sun exposure. If your freckles suddenly darken, grow, or change shape, that’s a red flag—not because they’re ephelides, but because they might have turned into something else. That’s why skin checks matter, even if you think you’re just "getting freckles." And if you’ve ever wondered why some people get them and others don’t, it’s mostly about genetics. Two siblings can spend the same time in the sun, and one comes out covered in freckles while the other doesn’t. That’s not luck—it’s your DNA.
You won’t find medical treatments for ephelides because they don’t need fixing. But you’ll find plenty of advice on how to manage them safely. Our collection covers everything from how sunscreen affects their appearance to how certain medications can make your skin more reactive to light. You’ll also see real discussions about skin monitoring, sun safety habits, and what to watch for when pigmentation changes. Whether you’re curious about why your freckles show up in May but vanish in December, or you’re worried about a new spot, the posts here give you clear, no-fluff answers based on real clinical insights.
