FRECKLES

Freckles are small brownish spots on human skin, generally mostly found on the face. Predisposition to freckles is genetic, though exposure to sunlight is a factor in how many appear. The gene for freckling is related to the presence of red hair. Based on recent genetic research, it has been suggested that this gene had Neanderthalic origins. (The basis of the claim is the age of the gene; this is not in itself proof, since Homo erectus pre-existed the Neanderthals.)

External Links:

• Redheads & Freckles
• Subjective news-article mentioning redhair/freckles genetic link with Neanderthals