Skin expert's warning against DIY freckle removal trends
The summer months and increased exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to pockets of pockets of dark brown spots to form on our skin.
While generally not considered dangerous, some people find them unsightly and turn to home hacks to remove them from their skin.
Now experts are warning against placing your trust in online remedies when it comes to treating skin issues.
Yasar Hussain, a specialist pharmacist in skincare and co-founder of Birmingham-based skincare specialists MiQuest, said: “Social media can be a really powerful tool to expand our horizons and discover new things, but you should always be careful with believing what you see online.
“The danger is that anyone can pass themselves off as being an expert on social media and they might not have the credentials to back it up.
“Many people develop freckles during summer due to increased sun exposure, and while some cherish them, others aren’t so keen.
“There are a number of clips and articles online claiming various concoctions of everyday ingredients including cucumber, apple cider vinegar, milk and lemon can get rid of freckles.
“I would always urge caution with trying homemade treatments to tackle skin issues.
“Some methods might be relatively harmless, while others may have the potential to cause damage to your skin.
“There are many skin types and different treatments work for different people, so a one-size-fits-all approach to skincare is unlikely to achieve the results you want.
“It’s always advisable to see a professional for advice if you have a skin condition that you want treated.”
A freckle is a little brown spot on your skin which is caused by the body’s response to sun exposure.
They are most commonly found in people with fair skin, and in areas which may be more exposed to the sun’s rays such as the face, neck, arms and hands.
In one TikTok video which has accumulated almost 3,000 likes, a user sings the praises of a cucumber and milk combination for combatting freckles, promising “if you use this every day you’ll see the benefits”
Other popular ingredients for removal freckles have included lemon juice, honey, yoghurt and onion, according to Healthline.
Mr Hussain, however, recommends not taking matters into your own hands if seeking to rid your skin of the clusters.
He added: “There are a number of ways to treat freckles that are more effective and safe than DIY concoctions of various household ingredients.
“These can include courses of laser treatment, chemical peels and bespoke topical treatments with active ingredients such as retinoids and vitamin C creams.
“A lightening agent named hydroquinone can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation and freckles.”