The leading theory about the evolution of human skin color is that it is a result of natural selection to adjust levels of pigmentation to the amount of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in different environments. This theory suggests that darker skin evolved to protect against the harmful effects of intense sunlight, particularly near the equator, while lighter skin developed in regions with less sunlight.
Here's a breakdown of the theory:
- Dark skin evolved to protect against UV damage: In regions with high levels of UV radiation, darker skin with more melanin (a pigment) provides better protection from sunburns, skin cancer, and folate depletion.
- Light skin evolved to optimize vitamin D production: In regions with less sunlight, lighter skin allows for greater absorption of UV radiation, which is necessary for vitamin D synthesis.
This theory explains why humans have evolved different skin colors based on their geographic location and the amount of UV exposure they received throughout their evolutionary history.
