There are many bleaching creams available to help reduce the appearance of freckles. Many of these treatments are available over the counter. Your dermatologist can also prescribe or recommend a good bleaching cream for you. Many of these treatments are available in creams, gels and lotions.
Freckles are large amounts of melanin that form in one area of the skin. Freckles are most common on the face, but can appear anywhere on the body. They are usually caused by too much sun exposure. If you suffer from freckles, it is important to wear sunscreen when exposed to the sun. If you are ready to get rid of your freckles, these are some bleaching creams you may want to try.
1. Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone works by decreasing melanin and increases the breakdown of melanosomes. It is available at the pharmacy in a 2% cream, but doctors can prescribe it in a 4% cream. Results should be seen between 1 and 3 months. If no results are seen by 3 months, you should discontinue using this product. During and after treatment sun exposure should be avoided and sunscreen should be used. Side effects of hydroquinone may include itching, redness and burning. These are usually mild, but if they get too bad, you should discontinue use.
2. Retinoids
Retinoids can be used to lighten freckles. Retinoids contain vitamin A medicines. These medicines promote the growth of new cells. They can be purchased over the counter or by prescription. Results can often be seen within 6 weeks of use. The side effects of retinoinds can be redness, blistering, peeling and possible swelling. These are usually mild and not bothersome to most people and will disappear after the skin has gotten used to the treatment.
3. Kojic Acid
Kojic acid was discovered in Japan and is made from mushrooms. It comes in the form of gels, creams, lotions, soaps or serums. Kojic acid has been shown to lighten the skin in very small concentrations. If using it to fade freckles, it is best to apply it only in the area of freckles, since there are chances that it will lighten all of the skin and the freckles will still be present. It can help to reverse sun damage done to the skin on all body parts. The side effects of Kojic acid include skin irritation, and the possibility that after discontinuing use, it can make your skin appear darker. These side effects are generally mild and do not happen to all people.
There are many other products available to lighten freckles. Most of these products will contain one or more of these ingredients and are available over the counter or by prescription. If you are not sure which one to choose, talk to your doctor; he can help you to determine the best cream for your skin type. If you are starting to develop freckles, it is best to avoid the sun or wear sunscreen to prevent more freckles from forming.
