Dark spots and freckles… are they the same?

With similarities in their appearances, it can be tricky to identify the dark spots and freckles on our skin. 

To differentiate between the two, Dr Rachel Ho of La Clinic explains that dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, refer to areas on the skin that appear darker than the others. They refer to all types of dark spots, including freckles, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and melasma, to name a few. 

Dr Ho adds that hyperpigmentation is a result of excess melanin production which could be due to exposure to ultraviolet rays, injury which then causes post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and hormone changes which can lead to melasma. 

According to Bebe Teo, senior vice president APAC at aesthetic and medical treatment systems manufacturer Cynosure, dark spots usually look larger and darker than freckles.

Freckles can be a result of sun exposure, shares Bebe. However, genetic factors can also contribute to freckles formation. Those with the MC1R gene may find themselves having a bigger chance of developing freckles early in their lives. 

As we age, our skin’s ability to distribute melanin is weakened, which causes darker spots to form in certain areas of our skin. Dr Ho says that they are harmless, and aesthetic treatments such as chemical peels and lasers are mostly done for cosmetic preferences. 

In-clinic treatments such as Cynosure’s PicoSure and PicoSure Pro lasers are designed to target melasma for all skin types, promising minimal downtime. “The melasma pigments absorb energy from the lasers and our body naturally eliminates the damaged pigments, allowing the skin to look clearer and healthier,” explains Bebe.

For everyday skincare routines, Dr Ho recommends the use of exfoliating acids and retinoids to help increase skin cell turnover. Ingredients such as vitamin C and azelaic acid can also assist in blocking the action of enzyme tyrosinase, which causes melanin synthesis. 

The first and simplest step to take for minimising dark spots and freckles? Heed Dr Ho and Bebe’s advice: avoid excessive sun exposure and use adequate sunscreen when heading out.