How do skin and hair acquire their natural color?

The natural color of skin and hair is primarily determined by the presence of melanin, which is a pigment produced by specialized cells called melanocytes. Melanin exists in different forms, specifically eumelanin (which is responsible for brown and black hues) and pheomelanin (which imparts yellow and red tones). The amount and type of melanin produced by the melanocytes are influenced by various factors, including genetics, sun exposure, and hormonal changes.

This pigmentation not only gives skin and hair their characteristic colors but also plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation by absorbing UV rays. The distribution and concentration of melanin in different parts of the body also contribute to the variations in skin and hair color among individuals. Understanding the role of melanin in pigmentation is essential for comprehending how skin and hair color can change over time with environmental influences and aging.