Melanin
Skin pigment
Melanin is the natural substance that gives color (pigment) to hair, skin, and the iris.
Information
Melanin is a natural substance that gives color (pigment) to:
- Hair
- Skin
- The iris of the eye
It is produced by cells in the skin called melanocytes.
Melanin also helps protect the skin from the sun.
References
Bolognia JL, Orlow SJ. Melanocyte biology. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 65.
Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary. Melanin.
Moore KL, Persaud TVN, Torchia MG. Development of eyes and ears. In: Moore KL, Persaud TVN, Torchia MG, eds. Developing Human, The. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 18.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 7/23/2024
Reviewed by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
