The cells responsible for skin color are called melanocytes. These specialized cells produce melanin, a pigment that determines the shade of our skin, hair, and eyes.
While all humans have the same number of melanocytes, the amount of melanin produced by these cells varies, leading to differences in skin color.
Here's how it works:
- Melanocytes are found in the basal layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin.
- They produce melanosomes, tiny sacs filled with melanin.
- Melanosomes are then transferred to nearby skin cells (keratinocytes) where they provide pigmentation.
There are two main types of melanin:
- Eumelanin is responsible for brown and black pigments.
- Pheomelanin is responsible for yellow and red pigments.
The unique combination of eumelanin and pheomelanin determines a person's skin, hair, and eye color.
It's important to note that:
- Skin color is a complex trait influenced by multiple genes.
- Environmental factors, such as sun exposure, can also affect melanin production.
- Skin pigmentation is a vital aspect of protecting the skin from harmful UV radiation.
