General Question

ava's avatar

Why is it that when I'm in the sun for prolonged periods I freckle but don't tan or burn?

Asked by ava (985points) July 9th, 2008

I have extremely fair skin (my nickname is Porcelana) that looks like it word burn instantly, but I just freckle…no tan, no burn.

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

1 Answer

shilolo's avatar

Skin response to light and overall darkness is a function of the melanocyte distribution. You are one of the people for whom melanocytes are clumped together, and in response to light, form freckles. This is typically more common in people with fair skin (as you describe yourself). This site does a decent job of explaining and diagraming the process.

shilolo (18075points)“Great Answer” (0points) Flag as…

Answer this question

Login

or

Join

to answer.

This question is in the General Section. Responses must be helpful and on-topic.

Your answer will be saved while you login or join.

Have a question? Ask Fluther!

What do you know more about?
or
Knowledge Networking @ Fluther