The primary factor controlling skin color is the pigment melanin, produced by cells called melanocytes in the skin. Melanin is the primary determinant of skin color in people with darker skin.
The amount of melanin produced by melanocytes directly influences skin color:
- More melanin: Leads to darker skin tones.
- Less melanin: Results in lighter skin tones.
The type of melanin also plays a role:
- Eumelanin: Responsible for brown and black pigmentation.
- Pheomelanin: Contributes to red and yellow pigmentation.
Several other factors contribute to skin color variation, including:
- Genetics: Variations in genes like MC1R influence melanin production and distribution.
- Geography and Sunlight: Exposure to sunlight stimulates melanin production, leading to tanning.
- Age: Skin color can change with age due to factors like sun exposure and hormonal changes.
