Skin pigmentation refers to the natural color of your skin, which is primarily determined by a pigment called melanin.
Here is a breakdown of how it works:
\nThe Source: Melanin is produced by specialized cells called melanocytes located in the bottom layer of the skin's epidermis.
\nThe Function: Melanin determines your skin tone (eumelanin makes it darker/brown, pheomelanin makes it lighter/red) and protects your DNA by absorbing harmful UV radiation from the sun.
\nVariations: While genetics determine your baseline color, pigmentation can change.
Hyperpigmentation: Overproduction of melanin causes dark patches (e.g., sunspots, melasma).
Hypopigmentation: Underproduction of melanin causes light patches (e.g., vitiligo).