Why Do 1 in 10 Nepalis Get Freckles? Is It Too Much Height?

Freckles—small, highly concentrated melanin—are found in people all over the world, and their distribution is highly variable. Visible freckles have been estimated among about 10% of the population in Nepal. This variability in skin color patterns raises several major questions. This blog post will discuss the biological and environmental basis of freckles and Nepali people’s perception of them.

 

What Are Freckles? 
Ephelides, or freckles, are small, flat pigmented lesions, typically brown or red, caused by an irregular dispersion of melanin, the pigment responsible for our skin, hair, and eye color. Unlike other forms of skin discoloration, freckles are not permanent; they can either lighten or become darker depending on the amount of sunlight exposure. Individuals with a light complexion and a genetic predisposition are more prone to developing freckles, though people from any background can have them, including many Nepalis.
Freckles differ from sunspots or lentigines, which are larger spots that appear later in life and are caused by excessive sun exposure. Freckles usually develop in childhood and may grow larger or darker with sun exposure, particularly in regions with a high UV index, such as Nepal.

 

 

The Science Behind Freckles 

Freckles result from the stimulation of small, round pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Melanocytes increase melanin production when the skin is exposed to the sun in order to protect it from UV radiation. However, in individuals prone to developing freckles, melanin is deposited unevenly in patches, resulting in noticeable freckles rather than a uniform tan.
Studies have shown that the chromosomes associated with freckles primarily produce eumelanin, which gives them a brown or reddish-brown color. Freckling is also influenced by certain genes, particularly the MC1R gene. When the MC1R gene is ‘activated,’ melanocytes produce melanin in clusters, leading to the formation of freckles. This genetic trait is more prevalent in some populations, contributing to the high occurrence of freckles among Nepalis.

 

 

Genetic Factors: 

Why Some People of Nepali Descent Are Genetically Prone to Freckles The genetic predisposition to freckling among Nepalis can be traced to various factors:

⦁    The MC1R Gene and Freckles 

 One gene, the MC1R gene, is highly associated with red hair and freckling. Mutations of this gene exist in many populations around the world and are thought to influence the distribution and levels of melanin in the skin. This gene is one of several that determine how well the skin responds to UV rays. It is hypothesized that in populations with high UV exposure, such as Nepali people living at high altitudes, the MC1R gene causes the skin to freckle as a response to protect it from UV radiation.
While red hair is not common among Nepalis, allelic variants associated with freckles are often observed. This could partly be due to gene flow from neighboring populations, random drift, or migration histories specific to South Asian populations.

⦁    Population Genetics and Interaction History

 Nepal is home to over one hundred ethnic groups, some of which have both South Asian and Central Asian genetic admixture. Interbreeding with Neanderthals, trade, and migration brought certain genetic traits associated with skin color and freckles to the region. Despite freckles being more commonly associated with Europeans, they can also be found in Nepalis of mixed South Asian, Mongolian, and even, to some extent, European descent, due to the MC1R gene variant.

⦁    Hispanic Heritage and Family Characteristics

Freckling is autosomal dominant, meaning that only one allele from either parent needs to express freckling for it to appear in their offspring. Freckles are often inherited through generations, which explains why some families or ethnic groups within Nepal may exhibit a higher frequency of freckles. This heritability has become evident, with approximately 10% of the population showing signs of freckling.

 

 

The following are the environmental factors that influence freckle formation Environmental Influence/ Concern:

While genetics lay the foundation for freckling, environmental factors play a crucial role in their development and visibility:

⦁    High Altitude and UV Exposure A significant portion of Nepal’s population lives at high altitudes, where protection from UV radiation is minimal. UV radiation is more intense at higher altitudes, so individuals with a genetic predisposition to freckles are more likely to develop them. The high UV index, which is common in cities like Kathmandu (over 1,400 meters above sea level) and Pokhara, could be a key factor in the higher frequency of freckles.

⦁    Lighting and Other Meteorological Influences Nepal has distinct seasons, and during the summer and monsoon, UV radiation can be particularly high. People with a higher risk of developing freckles may notice their skin becoming more freckled during these seasons due to increased sun exposure. Similarly, those who spend significant time outdoors, such as farmers and hikers, are more likely to develop freckles.

⦁    Civilization’s Roles and Recreations Many Nepalis work in agriculture or tourism, professions that often involve prolonged sun exposure. People such as high-altitude farmers, Sherpa guides, and porters are frequently exposed to the sun and are thus more likely to develop freckles. For example, Sherpas and mountaineers may experience more pronounced freckles due to prolonged exposure to high levels of UV light, especially in snowy mountain regions where UV radiation is reflected off the snow.

⦁    Pollution and Skin Sensitivity Cities like Kathmandu experience high levels of pollution, which can affect skin sensitivity. Harmful chemicals in the air can make the skin more susceptible to UV radiation, potentially increasing the likelihood of freckle formation.

 Cultural Imagery of Freckles in the Nepali Context 

Freckles are viewed differently across various societies, and in Nepal, the perception of freckles is shaped by a mix of traditional beliefs and modern influences:
⦁    Traditional Beliefs: In some Nepali communities, freckles are considered to be a natural and beautiful part of one's appearance. People with freckles may be viewed as lucky or special, especially in rural areas where natural features are prized. In contrast, in other parts of the world, a light complexion or white skin is considered desirable, and freckles may be seen as a flaw.
⦁    Influence of Western Media :As media has advanced, freckles have become more accepted in many parts of the developed world. The portrayal of freckles by western celebrities and models has helped shift perceptions, encouraging Nepali youth to embrace their natural beauty marks.
⦁    Social Culture: Prejudice and Stereotypes Despite the growing acceptance of freckles, some misconceptions still exist. In some cultures, people with freckles may be subjected to teasing or questioning, such as “Did you go out in the sun with that dress and shoes?” or “Why don’t you take them off?” This stems from a lack of understanding of the genetic factors behind freckles, which can negatively impact social acceptance, especially among teenagers.
⦁    This paper focuses on what the beauty and skin-lightening trends mean and the role they play. The continued popularity of skin-lightening products in South Asian countries like Nepal, where lighter skin is often favored, can lead people to feel embarrassed about their freckles. This societal preference for lighter skin can contribute to the desire to diminish or hide freckles.
⦁    Rising Popularity and Freckle Appreciation There is an increasing appreciation for freckles, particularly among the youth in urban areas. Freckles are found to be recognized more now as unique skin features, and there are lots of people who are proud of their freckles. For those who have freckles, the best skin care you need is essential for proper skin care and avoiding overstaying under the sun.th, stigma around freckles is fading. Freckles are increasingly celebrated as markers of individuality, and more people embrace them as a beautiful, natural trait

 

 

Managing and Embracing Freckles: Skincare Tips for Nepalis

 For those with freckles, it is essential to maintain healthy skin and protect it from excessive UV exposure. Here are some skincare tips for Nepalis who want to manage and embrace their freckles:
⦁    Daily Sunscreen Application The best way to protect freckles from darkening and to avoid potential skin damage is to use sunscreen daily. An SPF of NEWLOOK SPF30 or higher, or LOVEWARMTH SPF 50, is recommended for effective protection, especially for those who live or work at high altitudes.
⦁    Gentle Skincare Routine A gentle skincare routine helps keep the skin healthy without stripping it of its natural oils. Opt for mild cleansers like NEWLOOK CLEANSING MILK and moisturizers like NEWLOOK Snail Moisturizer, free from harsh chemicals that might irritate or dry the skin.
⦁    Vitamin C and Antioxidants Vitamin C serums like NEWLOOK and antioxidants can help protect the skin from environmental stressors. While they won’t remove freckles, they may even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation caused by sun damage.
⦁    Embrace Natural Beauty With the global trend toward natural beauty, many people proudly display their freckles as part of their unique identity. Social media and awareness campaigns celebrate natural skin features, encouraging people to embrace freckles as part of who they are.
⦁    Cosmetic Options for Freckles For those who wish to reduce the appearance of freckles, options such as laser treatments or chemical peels are available. However, it is always advisable to consult with a dermatologist, especially for those living in areas with high UV radiation like Nepal.