Melanocytes
Melanocytes — specialized cells in the deepest layer of the epidermis that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. Melanin also helps protect skin cells by absorbing and dispersing ultraviolet radiation. Differences in melanin type and distribution, rather than in the number of melanocytes, largely account for variation in skin tone.
Key points
- Melanocytes reside mainly in the stratum basale of the epidermis and produce the pigment melanin.
- Melanin is transferred to surrounding keratinocytes, where it helps shield cell nuclei from ultraviolet damage.
- Variation in skin tone results largely from the type, amount, and distribution of melanin rather than the number of melanocytes.
- Uneven melanin production can contribute to hyperpigmentation, such as sun spots and melasma.
Frequently asked
What do melanocytes produce?
Melanocytes produce melanin, the pigment that determines skin, hair, and eye color and helps protect skin from ultraviolet radiation.
Do people with darker skin have more melanocytes?
Not necessarily; most people have a similar number of melanocytes, and differences in skin tone come mainly from the type and amount of melanin those cells produce.
Related topics
This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.
