1. Sunscreen: Sunscreen won’t get rid of existing freckles, but it helps prevent new ones. You should wear sunscreen year-round, even when it’s cloudy. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen to bare skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating 1.

  2. Laser treatment: Laser treatment uses pulses of focused, intense light to target damaged areas of skin. According to a 2015 study, the 1064 Q-Switched Nd YAG laser is effective for treating freckles. Study results showed treatment with this laser lightened more than 50 percent of freckles in 62 percent of participants. Laser treatment is generally safe. The risk of scarring is low. However, other side effects may occur, including itching, swelling, redness, crustiness, peeling, infection, and changes in skin color. It may take up to two weeks to recover from laser treatment. Multiple sessions are usually needed to achieve desired results 1.

  3. Cryosurgery: Cryosurgery uses extreme cold in the form of liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells. Cryosurgery is generally safe, and it requires no anesthesia and little recovery time. Some potential side effects are hypopigmentation, bleeding, and blistering. Cryosurgery rarely causes scarring 1.

  4. Topical fading cream: Fading cream, also called bleaching cream, is available both over the counter and by prescription. Many fading creams contain hydroquinone, an ingredient thought to suppress melanin production and lighten darkened areas of skin. Topical hydroquinone cream may cause inflammation, dryness, burning, blistering, and skin discoloration. In 1982, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considered bleaching products that contained up to 2 percent hydroquinone as generally safe and effective 1.

  5. Retinoid cream: Retinoids are a class of chemical compounds derived from vitamin A. They are used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover and promoting collagen production. Retinoid cream may cause redness, dryness, and peeling. It is important to use retinoid cream as directed by a dermatologist 1.

  6. Chemical peel: Chemical peels use a chemical solution to remove the outer layer of skin. This can help reduce the appearance of freckles. Chemical peels can be done at different depths, depending on the severity of the freckles. Superficial peels are the mildest and can be done at home. Medium and deep peels are done by a dermatologist. Chemical peels may cause redness, swelling, and peeling 1.

  7. Natural remedies: Some natural remedies may help reduce the appearance of freckles. These include applying lemon juice, buttermilk, aloe vera, turmeric paste, licorice extract, and soy milk to the affected area. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these remedies 2.

It is important to note that freckles are a natural variation of human skin and are not harmful. While treatments do exist to lighten them, it is important to consult a dermatologist before trying any of these treatments 13.