Is that a Freckle?

What you thought were freckles could be a solar lentigines, as seen on this man's back.

Did you only develop them as you aged? Are they larger than the tiny freckles across a youngster's nose? Although harmless these brown markings are signs of sun damage.

Solar lentigines tend to become more numerous with repeated sun exposure and with advancing age. Sometimes they develop in large numbers, as seen on this man's upper back.

They're different from freckles in that freckles are red or light brown, are smaller in size, tend to develop earlier in life, and usually lighten in winter months.

Click to look at more slides from the Mayo Clinic.

Inspect yourself regularly for changes in your skin. See our other post about what to look for and how to preform a self-examination. Practice smart tanning, only exposing yourself for the recommended amount for your skin type and using SPF protection that is appropriate for your activities and skin type.