Skin pigment
InformationMelanin is a natural substance that gives color (pigment) to hair, skin, and the iris of the eye. It is produced by cells in the skin called melanocytes.
Melanin also helps protect the skin from the sun.
ReferencesNorris DA. Structure and function of the skin. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 461.