What is the medical term for freckles?

Freckles are commonly referred to as macules in medical terminology. Macules are defined as small, flat, discolored areas of the skin that are typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They do not have a raised texture, which is a characteristic that differentiates them from other skin lesions like papules or nodules. Freckles are a specific type of macule that occur due to an increase in melanin production in the skin, often as a result of sun exposure. Understanding the proper terminology helps in recognizing various skin conditions and communicating effectively about them in a professional setting.