Freckles are clusters of concentrated pigmented cells most often in areas of the skin that get sun exposure. They are most easily visible on people with a fair complexion. Freckles most often form as a result of overproduction of melanin, which is responsible for skin and hair color (pigmentation), due to overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (sun).
There are two categories of freckles: ephelides and solar lentigines. Ephelides are the common type most people think of as freckles. Solar lentigines are dark patches of skin that develop during adulthood. This includes freckles, aging spots, and sunspots. The two types of freckles can look similar but differ in other ways such as their development.
Ephelides: A freckle that is flat and light brown or red and fades with a reduction of sun exposure. These freckles form as a result of sun exposure and sunburns. They can appear on anyone who doesn’t protect themselves from UV rays. They show up on your face, the back of your hands, and upper body. This type tends to be most common amongst people with lighter skin tones and hair color. People of Caucasian and Asian descent are more prone to ephelides. The regular use of sunblock can inhibit their development.
Solar letigines: Like ephelides, tends to appear in Caucasians and adults over 40 years old. Liver spots (also known as sunspots) look like large freckles, but they form after years of exposure to the sun. Liver spots are more common in older people.
Freckles (commonly referred to as Hyperpigmentation) can occur in any skin type – oily, dry, dark and light. Simply put, it is excessive stimulation of melanin in the skin that results in uneven, darkened skin tone. Excessive melanin production can occur from systemic (within the body) and extrinsic (outside) causes.
Luckily pigmented skin responds well to lightening ingredients found in both professional treatments and brightening home care products.
Some of these ingredients include:
Bellis Perennis Flower (Daisy Flower) – a gentle, natural brightener derived from daisies.
L-Arbutin – a natural plant-based derivative of hydroquinone (HQ) with tyrosinase abilities. Since it is typically more stable and less sensitizing than HQ it’s a great alternative for those with sensitivities.
Kojic Acid – derived from Japanese mushrooms, it works to effectively inhibit melanin synthesis.
L-Lactic Acid – this keratoyltic AHA has natural brightening abilities, works to smooth skin and improve texture.
Azelaic Acid – a grain- and yeast-derived compound, it helps normalize disordered cell growth, provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Azelaic acid stops discolored skin cells from populating.
Hydroquinone* – A chemical that inhibits the synthesis of melanin by blocking one of the enzymes in the synthetic pathway, destroying the melanocytes that make it.
(*Note: Recently, due to so many misusing hydroquinone, from high percentages to long term use, the FDA has determined skin bleaching products, including hydroquinone, to be considered NON-GRASE (Generally Regarded As Safe and Effective) and has stated that this ingredient will soon become available only through prescription.)
The formulations of products utilizing these ingredients, as well as other brightening and skin-building ingredients, helps to breakdown dead surface cells, increase regeneration, soften fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation by suppressing melanin, and improve overall skin tone.
Supporting the skin’s overall health will also be an essential part of lightening pigmentation. The goal is to maintain optimum skin health, or restore it to optimum health so it may properly control pigmentation. It’s when the DNA damage occurs, that pigmentation becomes an issue. Regular exfoliating (with enzymes and gentles scrubs), boosting the skin’s strength with nutrient-rich and skin-building ingredients, and protecting it with a good mineral-based sun protection are a vital part of the brightening process.
For more information on products with these ingredients, visit www.RilaEsti.com/pigmentation-products or schedule a consultation for your personalized Brightening Home Care Routine recommendations.