Freckles are small, flat spots that are usually found on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, arms, and shoulders. They are tan, red, light brown, or dark brown, and are caused by an overproduction of melanin, a pigment that gives the skin its color. Freckles are almost always harmless and are not a sign of a health problem. They are more common in people with fair skin or red hair, but anyone can have them. If you have dark skin, your freckles may show up as darker brown spots. There are two types of freckles: ephelides and solar lentigines. Ephelides are the common type most people think of as freckles, and they form as a result of sun exposure and sunburns. Solar lentigines are dark patches of skin that develop during adulthood, including freckles, aging spots, and sunspots. Freckles cant be completely removed but can be lightened with topical products, lasers, and cryotherapy. However, natural freckles dont need treatment, and its best to avoid the sun as much as possible and use a daily sunscreen to prevent the development of more freckles.