Is it a Freckle or a Sunspot?
Both freckles and sunspots can appear on the skin after too much sun exposure. But although they are both caused by the sun, they aren't the same. Here's what sets them apart: (1) Freckles are active cells that have increased melanin production. Melanin is what provides the skin with color, and cells that contain too much of this compound produce freckles. In many cases, the presence of these cells is genetic, and the appearance of freckles may be unavoidable, especially if you spend time in the sun. (2) Sunspots, on the other hand, are caused when the cells' melanin production increases when combating UV and UB damage. When cells overproduce melanin, it causes the area to appear darker, forming a sunspot.
