Cells called melanocytes, located in the skin, produce melanin, which is the pigment that gives the skin its color. The amount of melanin produced determines the skin's color, ranging from very light to very dark. People with more melanin have darker skin, while those with less melanin have lighter skin.
Melanin also plays a role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. When exposed to sunlight, melanocytes produce more melanin, causing the skin to tan. This tan acts as a natural sunscreen, helping to shield the skin from sun damage.
Here are some additional factors that influence skin color:
- Genetics: The amount of melanin a person produces is primarily determined by their genes. This is why people tend to have skin tones similar to their parents and siblings.
- Sun exposure: Spending time in the sun can increase melanin production, causing the skin to tan.
- Age: As people age, their melanocytes may become less active, resulting in a lighter skin tone.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect melanin production, leading to changes in skin color. For example, vitiligo is a condition that causes patches of skin to lose their pigment, resulting in white patches.
