What does melanin provide to the skin and hair?

Melanin is a pigment that plays a crucial role in determining the color of the skin and hair. It is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are located primarily in the skin and hair follicles. The type and amount of melanin present influence the variation of color, leading to a wide spectrum from very light to very dark hues.

In skin, melanin serves to protect against damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation by absorbing sunlight, which helps to prevent DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer. In hair, melanin contributes to the natural color, varying from blonde to brunette to black, depending on the specific type and concentration of melanin present.

While texture, elasticity, and strength are important characteristics of skin and hair, they are not directly provided by melanin. Those attributes are influenced by factors such as collagen, elastin, and the overall health of the hair and skin, rather than by the pigmentation itself. Therefore, the role of melanin as the primary contributor to the color of skin and hair is the essential takeaway here.