Introduction:
Freckles and sunspots are two typical forms of skin pigmentation that many people worry about. Even while freckles and sunspots may first seem identical, knowing the differences between them is essential for treating and caring for your skin. We will examine the traits, causes, and available treatments for sunspots and freckles in this in-depth guide to help you distinguish between two frequent pigmentation problems on your skin.
Characteristics of Freckles:
Commonly found on skin exposed to the sun, freckles, sometimes called ephelides, are tiny, flat patches of pigmentation. Their size varies, ranging from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter, and their hue is often light to dark brown. The cheeks, arms, and shoulders are the most typical places to see freckles. They usually deepen in the sun and disappear when it’s not shining.
Causes of Freckles:
Freckles are primarily caused by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulating the synthesis of more melanin. The pigment that gives skin its color is called melanin, and the skin creates more melanin in response to sunlight to shield itself from ultraviolet ray damage. Skin freckles are caused by melanocytes, which are melanin-producing cells that become hyperactive and group together.
Characteristics of Sunspots:
Flat, brown, or tan patches on the skin that appear as a result of sun exposure are called sunspots, solar lentigines, or liver spots. Sunspots are larger and more pronounced than freckles; they often take the form of round or oval patches on skin that has been exposed to the sun regularly, such the face, hands, and shoulders. Sunspots can be light brown, dark brown, or black in hue.
Causes of Sunspots:
Prolonged or frequent exposure to UV light from the sun causes sunspots to form. Melanin builds up in some parts of the skin as a result of UV exposure over time damaging skin cells. Sunspots are the outcome of this overproduction of melanin. Sunlight-related variables that can lead to sunspot growth include heredity, age, and using tanning beds.
Distinguishing Between Freckles and Sunspots:
Although the color and form of freckles and sunspots may seem similar, several important distinctions can help you tell them apart. Smaller in size and more dispersed over the skin, freckles frequently occur in clusters or groups. In the winter, when there is less light exposure, they also tend to fade. Sunspots, on the other hand, have a more uniform look and are bigger and better defined. In addition, they might not fade or darken over time despite exposure to the light.
Treatment Options for Freckles:
In most cases, freckles are benign and don’t need medical attention. For aesthetic reasons, some people might, nonetheless, want to lessen or minimize the appearance of freckles. Chemical peels, laser therapy, intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, and topical bleaching creams containing hydroquinone or retinoids are among the treatments available for freckles. To find the best course of action for your skin type and issues, it’s crucial to speak with a dermatologist.
Treatment Options for Sunspots:
Like freckles, sunspots are harmless but may be treated for cosmetic reasons. Treatment options for sunspots include topical bleaching creams, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, and IPL therapy. These treatments work by targeting and reducing the excess melanin in the skin, leading to a more even complexion. As with freckles, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for sunspots based on your individual needs.
Prevention Strategies:
The best way to prevent both freckles and sunspots is to minimize sun exposure and protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. This includes wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seeking shade during peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses, and avoiding tanning beds. Additionally, practicing good skincare habits, such as cleansing, moisturizing, and exfoliating regularly, can help maintain healthy skin and reduce the risk of pigmentation issues.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while freckles and sunspots may share some similarities in appearance, they are distinct skin pigmentation issues with different causes and characteristics. Understanding the differences between freckles and sunspots is essential for proper skin care and treatment. By knowing how to identify and differentiate between the two, individuals can take appropriate steps to care for their skin and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion for years to come.
FAQs (frequently-asked questions)
Freckles are small, flat spots on the skin that are usually light to dark brown in color. They develop as a result of increased melanin production in response to UV exposure.
Sunspots, also known as solar lentigines or liver spots, are flat, brown or tan spots that develop on the skin due to prolonged sun exposure. They are larger and more defined than freckles.
Freckles are smaller in size and tend to be more scattered across the skin, fading in the absence of sunlight. Sunspots are larger, more defined, and may persist or darken over time, regardless of sun exposure.
Freckles are generally harmless and do not require treatment. Sunspots are also benign but may indicate sun damage and can be treated for cosmetic reasons.
Freckles develop due to overactive melanocytes producing excess melanin in response to UV radiation from the sun.
Sunspots form as a result of accumulated melanin in the skin cells due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation.
While freckles and sunspots are harmless, they can be treated for cosmetic reasons. Treatment options include topical bleaching creams, chemical peels, and laser therapy.
Minimize sun exposure, wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, seek shade, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds to prevent freckles and sunspots.
Freckles may fade in the absence of sunlight, while sunspots may persist or darken over time.
If you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of freckles or sunspots, or if they start to itch, bleed, or become irregular, consult a dermatologist for evaluation and proper diagnosis.
A: Secukinumab inhibits a member of the cytokine family, interleukin 17A, which is produced mainly by inflammatory T helper 17 cells.IL17A is upregulated in serum of people with psoriasis and in the synovial fluid of people with psoriatic arthritis, and promotes inflammation when it binds to the interleukin-17 receptor which is expressed in various types of cells, including keratinocytes in skin.
▪️ Plaque psoriasis ( including pediatric patients aged 6 and above)
▪️ Psoriatic Arthritis ( including pediatric patients age 2 and above)
▪️ Ankylosing spondylitis
▪️ Enthisitis related arthritis
A: Brand name: Cosentyx ( by Novartis)
▪️ 75mg/ml, 150mg/ml and 300 mg/2ml prefilled syringe
▪️ 150 mg and 300mg prefilled pens ( not available in Pakistan.
▪️Reconstitution and Preparation of COSENTYX Lyophilized Powder. ( Not available in Pakistan)
Price : 1 injection 150mg prefilled syringe : 51000 to 60,000
Dosage:
Plaque psoriasis: 150- 300mg on wks 0, 1,2,3,4 and then every 4 wks.
Psoriatic arthritis: 150- 300mg on wks 0, 1,2,3,4 and then every 4 wks.
In children 6yrs and above: <50 kg 75mg
on wks 0, 1,2,3,4 and the every 4 wks.
In chldren above 6yrs and above > 50kg 150 mg on wks 0, 1,2,3,4 and the every 4 wks.
Pediatric Patients 2 years and older with psoriatic arthritis:
Recommended dosage is administered by subcutaneous injection at Weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 and every 4 weeks thereafter.
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For patients weighing ≥ 15 kg and < 50 kg the dose is 75 mg.
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For patients weighing ≥ 50 kg the dose is 150 mg.
♦️They include:
▪️ Anaphylaxis, urticaria, allergy
▪️ Infections or reactivation of infections.
▪️Inflammatory Bowel Disease
▪️Abdominal pain, Diarrhae
▪️Neutropenia
▪️Headache
▪️HTN
▪️Malignancies
▪️Mucocutaneus Candidiasis
▪️Bladder Cancer
▪️Thyroid cancer
