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There is a pigment that our skin produces, called 'melanin' (you've probably heard of it) which has this special role. This protein is created by cells called melanocytes when DNA damage is detected. These melanocytes have a few protruding arms which attach to basal cells, which are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation.

So when our skin is exposed to UV light, such as in sunlight, the DNA in these basal cells may be damaged, causing them to send distress signals to the melanocytes through its attachments, which then results in the melanocyte increasing its production of melanin which it releases into the skin to try to shield these cells from further damage.

Since melanin in humans is a yellow-brown colour, this increased production results in a diffuse pigmentation we know as a tan, or may occur in more localised defined areas such as in freckles and moles.

Remember: A 'holiday tan' is a sign of excess rapid sun exposure, and a symptom of DNA damage. It is the direct result of the skin working incredibly hard to protect the body against harmful UV radiation, the effects of which may damage DNA to the extent that dangerous cancers such as melanoma may occur. Be careful in the sun!

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Dulce Hickle

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4y ago

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