What does melanin do in the body?

Melanin is a crucial pigment found in the skin, hair, and eyes, responsible for the coloration seen in these areas. It plays an essential role in determining the shade and depth of an individual's skin tone and hair color. The primary function of melanin is to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, which helps to protect the skin from damage that can lead to skin cancer and other harmful effects.

The production of melanin is influenced by genetic factors and can vary significantly among individuals and populations. Higher levels of melanin result in darker skin, which provides more protection against UV radiation, whereas lower levels result in lighter skin, which is more susceptible to UV damage.

In this context, while other functions, such as providing structural integrity, regulating temperature, or acting as a barrier, are important in the overall functionality of skin, they do not specifically relate to the role of melanin. Melanin’s primary and most recognized function is indeed its responsibility for pigmentation and protection against UV radiation.