Why do freckles fade in winter?

Every autumn, many freckled redheads notice the same thing. The first sign of the weather change is the constellation across their nose and cheeks starting to fade, and by midwinter they’re barely there.

So where do freckles go in winter? And why do some brown spots hang around all year?

Why do freckles fade in winter?

Freckles (their medical name is ‘ephelides’) are small spots where your skin has made extra melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Melanin production increases when skin is exposed to UV rays, so that’s why freckles become more noticeable in summer. And in winter, when there’s less UV, they fade.

Much like how a tan fades after the sun exposure is over, and your melanin production returns to normal, your freckles will likely behave similarly.

Why do redheads get so many freckles?

Freckles are common in fair-skinned people, especially those with red hair, and that the MC1R gene (the same gene behind most natural red hair) is thought to be the main one involved. That’s why freckles and red hair so often (but not always!) come as a set.

Embrace the seasonal switch

Whether you love your freckles or have a more complicated relationship with them, it’s quite nice to know they follow the seasons. Enjoy your winter complexion, and your freckles will likely be back with the spring sunshine.