Melanin and Skin Pigmentation
Melanin and Skin Pigmentation — the natural pigment produced by cells called melanocytes that determines skin, hair, and eye color and helps protect skin from ultraviolet radiation. Its amount and type give rise to the range of human skin tones, and uneven distribution can appear as dark spots or patches.
Key points
- Melanin is made by melanocytes and transferred to surrounding skin cells, where it influences color.
- Two main forms, eumelanin and pheomelanin, differ in color and protective properties.
- Melanin absorbs and scatters UV radiation, helping shield skin cells from sun damage.
- Differences in skin tone reflect the type and amount of melanin, not the number of melanocytes.
- Uneven melanin production can cause hyperpigmentation such as sun spots and melasma.
Frequently asked
Do people with darker skin have more melanocytes?
The number of melanocytes is broadly similar across skin tones; differences in color come mainly from how much melanin those cells produce and which type. Larger and more active melanin-containing structures contribute to deeper tones.
Does melanin fully protect against sun damage?
Melanin offers some natural UV protection and reduces certain damage, but it does not provide complete protection for any skin tone. Sunscreen and sun-protective habits remain important for everyone.
Related topics
This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.
