What is the main pigment responsible for the color of hair?

The primary pigment responsible for the color of hair is melanin. Melanin is a natural pigment produced by melanocytes, which are specialized cells located in the hair follicle. It comes in various forms, primarily eumelanin (which can be black or brown) and pheomelanin (which tends to be yellow or red). The concentration and type of melanin present in the hair ultimately determine its coloration, ranging from blonde to black, as well as the inclusion of various hues.

Keratin, another option listed, is a fibrous protein that constitutes the bulk of the hair's structure, providing strength and resilience, but does not contribute to color. Chlorophyll, found in plants, plays a role in photosynthesis and is unrelated to hair pigmentation. Collagen, a structural protein found in connective tissues, also does not influence hair color and instead supports skin and various bodily structures. Understanding the role of melanin is essential in fields such as aesthetics, where knowledge of hair color can impact treatment choices and client consultations.