Ephelides freckles are believed to be a genetic predisposition, since they are common in fair skinned people. However, UV rays from the sun or tanning beds can also create solar lentigines freckles (i.e. brown spots) in anyone. So, on the one hand, you may have freckles because you inherited the predisposition. On the other hand, lifestyle habits that exposed you to the sun or other UV sources probably exacerbated your melanin production. Please see more on our website.