Genetic Stuff

Is it even possible to change your genetics so your skin will change like not develop freckles in the sun.
Also say in future if you were going to have a child is it possible to remove any genetics you don't want the child to have passed on to them.

[Lisa Kessler, MS, CGC]

Thank you for your questions.  It is not possible to specifically change your genes so that you will not freckle in the sun.   About your next question: while it is not possible to “remove” genetic material, there options of prenatal diagnosis and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis for families at increased risk for specific genetic conditions to consider.  These tests can help families have a child without a particular inherited condition.  To learn more information about these tests and whether or not they are appropriate for you, a genetic counselor may help.  You can find a genetic counselor through the National Society of Genetic Counselor’s website.