Freckles
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Freckles are light and dark yellow or brown spots of irregular shape, isolated or merging, ranging from pinhead size to larger than a pea, located at the level of the skin. They are most commonly found on the face and exposed parts of the body, more frequently in blondes and redheads.
Encyclopedia article (1928–1936)
Freckles (ephelides), spots of light and dark yellow or brown color, of irregular shape, isolated and merging, from the size of a pinhead to a pea and larger, located at the level of the skin. Freckles occur predominantly on the face and exposed parts of the body (neck, chest, back of the hands), more frequently in blondes and redheads. Anatomically, they represent excessive deposition of melanotic pigment in the deep layers of the Malpighian network and the presence of chromatophores in the papillary layer. The cause is not clarified. Actinic rays of sunlight undoubtedly have an influence, although on the other hand, freckles also occur in areas protected by clothing. For prevention, to protect against the action of violet rays of sunlight, it is recommended to wear yellow or red veils, to use ointments or pastes with red clay (Bolus rubra), coumarin (Zeozon and Ultrazeozon). Temporarily, freckles are removed by ointments with white precipitate mercury (5-10%) and bismuth, hydrogen peroxide solution, and generally by various exfoliating agents (for example, resorcin paste). 7G4
Related articles
Cite this page
“Freckles.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/freckles/