Melanin is a natural pigment responsible for the coloration of skin, hair, and eyes in humans and animals. It is produced in specialized cells called melanocytes, which are found in the lower layer of the epidermis (outer layer of skin), in hair follicles, and in the iris of the eyes. Melanin plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. By absorbing UV rays, melanin helps prevent DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer.
Types of melanin
There are mainly two types of melanin:
- Eumelanin : This pigment ranges from brown to black and is responsible for the darker coloration of skin, hair, and eyes. A higher concentration of eumelanin offers better protection against UV rays.
- Pheomelanin : This pigment has a red to yellow color and is present in higher concentrations in people with fair skin, red hair, and freckles. Pheomelanin offers less protection against UV rays than eumelanin.
Functions of Melanin
- UV protection : Melanin absorbs and distributes UV rays, thus protecting the skin from UV-related damage.
- Thermoregulation : Melanin can help regulate body temperature, especially in sunny environments.
- Visual acuity : Melanin in the iris regulates the amount of light that enters the eye and contributes to the sharpness of vision.
Melanin and health
- Skin cancer risk : People with fair skin and lower melanin concentrations have a higher risk of skin cancers such as melanoma, as their skin is less protected.
- Vitamin D synthesis : Melanin influences the skin's ability vitamin D from sunlight. High melanin concentrations can slow down vitamin D production, which in some cases can lead to vitamin D deficiency.
- Pigment disorders : Conditions such as vitiligo, albinism and melasma are due to changes in melanin production and affect the appearance of the skin.
Melanin in cosmetics and therapy
- Skin care : Products that aim to regulate melanin production are often used to treat pigmentation disorders such as hyperpigmentation and age spots.
- Hair dyes : Changing the natural hair color through dyeing visually affects the melanin concentration in the hair.
Research into melanin and its functions provides valuable insights into the fields of dermatology, endocrinology and cosmetology, and helps in the development of protective measures against skin cancer and in the treatment of pigment disorders.
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