What causes freckles?

Answer by  SelfishWarrior (43)

Freckles, little patches of darkly pigmented skin, are caused by melanin. Melanin is released by melanocytes in the skin when it's exposed to ultraviolet (or UV) light. This deeper pigmentation protects the skin from being darkened by further sun exposure. While freckles do fade somewhat during the winter months, they do not "go away" as you age.

Answer by  helper72 (282)

Freckles are in part caused by genetics. Your genes predispose you to acquiring a fair amount of them during your childhood. Also, sun can cause more freckles.

Answer by  sailoryue (853)

two things cause freckles. genetics, if your a ginger, and sunlight. they wont go away as you get older though.