The primary chemical responsible for human skin color is melanin.
Understanding Melanin
Melanin is a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes located in the epidermis's basal layer. The amount and type of melanin determine an individual's skin tone. This Cleveland Clinic article explains that melanin also contributes to hair and eye color. The process of melanin production, known as melanogenesis, starts with the amino acid tyrosine, which acts as a substrate for the enzyme tyrosinase. This NCBI article details the complex process leading to the production of eumelanin (brown-black) and pheomelanin (red-yellow), the two main types of melanin.
Factors Affecting Skin Color
While melanin is the key chemical, other factors influence skin color:
- Genetics: Inherited genes significantly influence melanocyte activity and melanin production.
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun stimulates melanocytes to produce more melanin, leading to tanning.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals can alter skin pigmentation, sometimes permanently. This FDA article discusses chemical leukoderma, a condition resulting in skin discoloration due to chemical exposure.
Chemical Peels and Skin Color
Chemical peels, as discussed in this Mayo Clinic article and this Cleveland Clinic article, can temporarily affect skin color by removing layers of skin and revealing newer, sometimes lighter skin. However, the underlying melanin production remains largely unchanged.
