Sunspots vs. Freckles: What’s the Difference? | EverYoung Skin Clinic

Sunspots vs. Freckles: What’s the Difference?

Not all brown spots on your skin are the same. Some may be freckles that have been there since childhood, while others may be sunspots that have appeared over time.

At first glance, they can look pretty similar. Both can show up on areas that get a lot of sun, such as your face, hands, shoulders, and chest. So how can you tell the difference?

Understanding what causes them is a good place to start.

What Are Freckles?

Freckles are small, flat spots that are usually tan, light brown, or slightly darker than the surrounding skin. They are often linked to genetics and tend to become more noticeable after spending time in the sun.

If you have freckles, you may notice that they become darker or more visible during the summer and fade somewhat during the winter when you have less sun exposure.

Freckles can appear at a relatively young age and are often numerous, with smaller spots spread across areas of the skin.

While freckles themselves are generally harmless, protecting your skin from UV exposure is still important. Sun exposure can make freckles more noticeable and can also contribute to other forms of skin damage over time.

What Are Sunspots?

Sunspots, sometimes called age spots or solar lentigines, are also flat areas of increased pigmentation. Unlike freckles, they are more closely associated with cumulative sun exposure over the years.

They tend to appear on areas that regularly receive sunlight, including the face, hands, shoulders, arms, and chest. Sunspots can range from light brown to darker brown and may be larger and more defined than typical freckles.

You may also notice more of them as you get older because the effects of years of UV exposure can gradually become more visible.

Sunspots vs. Freckles: What Is the Main Difference?

The easiest way to think about the difference is age, cause, and appearance.

Freckles are often influenced by genetics and become more noticeable with sun exposure. They are usually smaller and may become lighter when you spend less time in the sun.

Sunspots are more closely related to accumulated UV exposure. They tend to remain visible rather than fading with the seasons and can become more common over time.

Of course, there can be plenty of overlap. Looking at a spot yourself does not always tell you exactly what it is.

Can Sunspots and Freckles Be Treated?

Yes, there are treatments that can help reduce the appearance of unwanted pigmentation.

At EverYoung, Super IPL Photofacial is one option used to target pigmentation and uneven skin tone. IPL, or intense pulsed light, uses light energy to target pigment in the skin. EverYoung specifically offers Super IPL for concerns including freckles, sun damage, and age spots.

Depending on your skin and the type of pigmentation you have, other treatments may also be considered. EverYoung offers PicoSure Skin Revitalization, which is designed to improve skin tone and pigmentation, as well as other skin rejuvenation treatments.

The right treatment depends on what is causing the pigmentation, your skin type, and what kind of results you are looking for. A consultation is the best way to determine which option makes sense for you.

Don’t Forget About Sun Protection

Treating existing pigmentation is only part of the picture. If your skin continues to receive significant UV exposure without protection, new pigmentation can develop, and existing spots may become darker.

Daily sun protection can help protect your skin from further UV damage. A broad-spectrum sunscreen, along with seeking shade and using protective clothing when appropriate, can all help reduce your exposure to the sun.

This is especially important if you are having a treatment designed to improve pigmentation.

When Should You Have a Spot Checked?

It is important not to assume that every brown spot is simply a freckle or sunspot.

Some skin cancers and other skin conditions can look similar to what appears to be an age spot. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends having suspicious or changing spots evaluated rather than treating them yourself.

If a spot is new, changing in size, shape, or colour, bleeding, or otherwise looks unusual, speak with a qualified medical professional for an assessment before considering cosmetic treatment.

Ready to Treat Unwanted Pigmentation? Chat with Skin Specialists at EverYoung

If you are looking to reduce the appearance of sunspots, freckles, or other pigmentation concerns, EverYoung Laser & Skin Clinic offers treatments including Super IPL Photofacial and PicoSure Skin Revitalization to help improve uneven skin tone and pigmentation. Our team can assess your skin and recommend an approach based on your individual concerns and goals.

With convenient locations in Downtown Vancouver, Metrotown Burnaby, North Vancouver, and Port Coquitlam, you can find an EverYoung clinic close to you.

Book your consultation today and find out which treatment may be right for your skin.

Learn More About Super IPL Photofacial & PicoSure Skin Revitalization in Our FAQ’s

All areas of the body may be treated, with the most common areas being those exposed to the sun, including: face, neck, décolletage, legs, hands and arms.

Avoid direct, excessive sun exposure one month prior to treatment.

During treatment, protective eyewear will be provided to shield your eyes. You may see brief flashes of light and feel a mild snapping or warming sensation on the skin. Temporary redness and warmth are common and typically settle within a few hours. In the days following treatment, pigmented areas may appear slightly darker before gradually lightening as the skin renews. Vascular concerns may temporarily change in appearance before improving over time. As your skin continues its natural renewal process, you may notice a clearer and more even-looking complexion.

Some clients may notice visible improvement after an initial session, with additional treatments helping to enhance and maintain results. The recommended number of sessions depends on factors such as skin condition, skin type, and the specific concerns being addressed (for example, pigmentation or vascular concerns). Your treatment plan will be customized by our trained medical aesthetics team to ensure a safe and appropriate approach.

After an IPL photofacial, expect temporary redness, swelling, and darkening of pigmented spots, followed by flaking and improved skin tone over days to weeks with sun protection and proper aftercare.

After a photofacial, avoid sun exposure, hot baths, and aggressive skincare products, and follow specific post-treatment guidelines to optimize results and minimize potential side effects.

Healing time after an IPL photofacial varies, but many people experience mild redness and swelling for a few hours to a day, and any temporary darkening of pigmented spots may flake off over the next few days to weeks, with complete healing typically within a week or so.

Before a photofacial, avoid using products containing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or exfoliating agents, and refrain from excessive sun exposure to optimize treatment safety and efficacy.

Before a photofacial, avoid using products containing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or exfoliating agents, and refrain from excessive sun exposure to optimize treatment safety and efficacy.

Before IPL treatment, do avoid sun exposure and tanning products; after treatment, don’t expose treated areas to direct sun, heat, or use abrasive skincare products to ensure optimal healing and results.

After IPL treatment, protect treated areas from direct sunlight, avoid hot showers or baths, and use gentle skincare products to aid in healing and minimize potential side effects.

In most cases, showering after IPL is fine. However, it is recommended to avoid hot water and high water pressure immediately after treatment, as the skin may be temporarily more sensitive. Using lukewarm water and gentle cleansing is generally advised during the first day while the skin settles.

The number of sessions required for a Photofacial varies based on individual skin concerns and goals, but typically, a series of 3-5 sessions spaced a few weeks apart is recommended for optimal results.

Some individuals may begin to notice visible changes in skin tone and texture within the days to weeks following treatment. Improvements typically develop gradually as the skin renews. A series of treatments may be recommended to enhance and maintain results, depending on individual skin concerns.

The effects of a Photofacial can last anywhere from several months to a couple of years, depending on individual skin type, sun exposure habits, skincare regimen, and maintenance treatments, with periodic sessions recommended for sustained results.

After an IPL facial, most individuals experience minimal downtime, with some potential redness or mild swelling lasting a few hours to a day, although specific reactions can vary based on skin sensitivity and treatment intensity.

After PicoSure Focus, follow post-treatment care instructions, including avoiding sun exposure, using sunscreen, and keeping the treated area clean and moisturized for optimal results.

The effects of Pico laser, such as skin improvement and reduction of pigmentation, are often visible within a few days to a few weeks after treatment, with optimal results appearing over several sessions.

Before PicoSure laser, avoid sun exposure and tanning, discontinue use of certain medications that increase photosensitivity, and inform your provider about any recent skin treatments or use of topical products containing retinoids to minimize potential side effects.

PicoSure Focus works by delivering ultra-short pulses of laser energy to break down pigmentation and stimulate collagen production, promoting skin rejuvenation and improvement in texture, tone, and pigmentation.

After Pico laser, avoid sun exposure, use sunscreen, and refrain from using harsh skincare products, as well as activities that may cause excessive sweating, to promote optimal healing and results.

The healing time after Pico laser treatment varies, but most individuals experience redness and swelling for a few hours to a day, with the skin typically returning to normal within a week; complete results, including improved skin texture and tone, may continue to develop over several weeks.

After Pico laser, expect mild redness and swelling for a short period, with gradual improvement in skin texture, tone, and pigmentation over the following weeks, following post-treatment care guidelines provided by your healthcare professional.

It’s generally recommended to avoid hot baths, saunas, and swimming pools for the first 24 to 48 hours after Pico laser treatment to minimize the risk of irritation and infection; follow specific post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

Mild itching after Pico laser is normal as the skin heals, but if persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult with your healthcare professional.

While generally considered safe and effective, potential issues with PicoSure can include temporary side effects like redness or swelling; however, serious complications are rare and proper administration by a qualified professional is crucial.

White bumps after Pico laser could be a temporary response, such as micro-crusting or pinpoint bleeding, and are often part of the normal healing process; consult with your healthcare professional if you have concerns or if they persist.

Yes, Pico laser is effective in treating dark spots or hyperpigmentation by breaking down pigmented cells, leading to a more even skin tone and reduced appearance of dark spots over multiple sessions.

Yes, you can wear light makeup 6 hours after the procedure.

PicoSure Focus and PicoWay are both picosecond lasers used for skin rejuvenation, but they differ in their technology and wavelengths, with PicoSure focusing on a 755nm wavelength and PicoWay offering multiple wavelengths for versatile treatment options.

Temporary darkening of the skin after Pico laser may occur due to increased melanin production as part of the healing process, but it typically resolves over time, revealing improved skin tone and texture.

Yes, you can usually wash your face after laser treatment, but use a gentle cleanser and follow any specific post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

The number of sessions needed for optimal results with Pico laser varies based on individual skin concerns, but multiple sessions are often recommended to achieve the best outcome for issues like pigmentation, fine lines, and skin texture.

It’s generally advisable to avoid applying masks immediately after Pico laser treatment to allow the skin to heal; follow the post-treatment instructions provided by your healthcare professional for specific guidance.

Pico laser treatments can lead to mild peeling as part of the skin’s natural exfoliation process, revealing refreshed and rejuvenated skin; however, the extent of peeling varies among individuals and may not be a prominent side effect.

The best cream to use after Pico laser depends on individual skin needs, but a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer and a sunscreen with high SPF are commonly recommended to aid in the healing process and protect the treated skin. Consult with your healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.