Freckles are just harmless hyperpigmentation, right? Does that mean that moles and sunspots are more sinister? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about freckles vs moles and sunspots. It could be the difference between spotting skin cancer early or it growing undetected.
Freckles are small spots on the skin that are usually tan, brown, dark brown or even pink. Freckles tend to be flat and are more common in people with fair skin. Although freckles can appear anywhere on the body, they’re often (but not always) found on areas of skin that have been repeatedly exposed to the sun over a long period of time. This is why they’re most common on the face, arms, upper chest, upper back, and shoulders.
Freckles are made by melanocytes depositing skin pigment called melanin in the normal skin cells. Melanocytes are the cells in the body that produce pigment that give our skin its colour. These increased melanin deposits are in response to DNA damage caused by UV radiation (Sun damage). As freckles are the skin’s response to UV rays, they may fade or disappear over time.
On the other hand, later in life you may notice larger freckles appear. These are sometimes called “age spots” or “liver spots” — even though they’re not related to the liver. If they’re bothersome, there are prescription creams and skin treatments available that can remove them or make them less visible. Make sure you get these checked before treating them, as they can be confused with early melanoma.
Some people embrace their freckles, seeing them as a sprinkle of stardust on their skin. Others prefer to cover them up. Whether you dig or detest your freckles, the good news is they’re harmless.
While genetics can make you more prone to freckling, the sun is the biggest cause. If you do notice freckles on your skin, it’s a good reminder to slather on the sunscreen and keep your skin protected.
Moles, (also known as nevi) develop when pigment cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters within the skin. They appear as dark marks on the skin that can be flat or slightly raised.
Moles are typically round or oval and can appear anywhere on the body. Moles appear during our childhood and teenage years. According to the Cancer Council, by the age of 15 — Australian children have an average of more than 50 moles. Yet, new moles can appear in later life.
Most moles are harmless (benign), but it’s important to watch out for moles for any change in shape, colour or size.
Sunspots (AKA solar lentigines) are areas of hyperpigmentation. They’re caused by prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. This triggers pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin to produce more pigment in a small, concentrated area.
Sunspots are typically flat, brown, or black in colour and can vary in size. Although they tend to be larger than freckles and are more common in older people.
While sunspots are harmless, they are a sign of sun damage and can indicate an increased risk of skin cancer. It is important to protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to prevent the formation of sunspots and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Is it a mole, freckle or sunspot? Sometimes it can be difficult to tell the difference. Here’s an overview of the common signs for each type of skin spot.
If you notice any new skin changes it pays to have them checked out by a professional. While freckles and sunspots are harmless, they are a result of exposure to the sun. This puts you at increased risk of melanoma. Symptoms of skin cancer to watch for include:
A spot which is sore (scaly, itchy, bleeding, tender) and doesn’t heal within six weeks may be a sign of something more serious.
Any spot or skin growth that changes in size, shape, colour or texture is more likely to be a melanoma.
If you notice an atypical mole (AKA dysplastic nevi) or a spot or mark that feels different or stands out when compared to your other spots and moles, get it checked out.
Any new moles, spots or marks on your skin should be checked, particularly if you are over the age of 40.
Some people are at higher risk of skin cancer due to genetics or skin type. People with fair skin, light or red hair and a high number of moles are more likely to develop skin cancer. Other risk factors include a history of sun exposure, previous use of tanning beds, and/or a family or personal history of skin cancer.
The easiest way to protect your skin health is with an annual professional skin check. At MoleMap, our melanographers perform a comprehensive head to toe skin check. Any at risk moles are imaged and sent electronically for dermatologist diagnosis. During your skin assessment, they’ll discuss your personal skin cancer risk and advise on ways to keep your skin safe.
It’s also a good idea to perform an at-home skin check, ideally every three months. This is a great way to get to know your skin. If anything changes, you’re more likely to notice it and can book a skin check to get it quickly looked at.
