Ephelids L81.2

Reversible pigment spots that appear after tanning and recede in the months with little sunlight, which are caused exclusively by an increase in melanin in the numerically unchanged melanocytes and keratinocytes. Their number varies, sometimes only sporadically, sometimes in dense dissemination, so that hardly any free skin areas remain between them. Their distribution is irregular, group formations are absent.

Especially the face (nose, cheeks, eyelids, temples), arms, shoulders and neckline.

Sharply defined, surface-smooth, spatter-like, small, grainy to lentil-sized, mostly pigmented spots, which appear in various shades of color, sometimes pale yellow, light brown, yellow-brown and finally also dark brown.

Not necessary. Covering if necessary, e.g. with hydrophilic skin-colored masking paste. Prophylactic: Physical light protection, in case of strong sunlight additional sunscreen.

Ephelids provide indications of increased individual sensitivity to light. They fade again in winter or disappear completely.

1. Pradillo Martín MC et al. (2024) Multiple ephelides: Just freckles? An Pediatr 100:81-82.