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    Melanin

    Skin pigment

    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.

    Open References

    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. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/melanin. Accessed July 26, 2024.

    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.

      • Melanin

        Melanin - illustration

        Melanin is the natural substance that gives color (pigment) to hair, skin, and the iris.

        Melanin

        illustration

        • Melanin

          Melanin - illustration

          Melanin is the natural substance that gives color (pigment) to hair, skin, and the iris.

          Melanin

          illustration

        Tests for Melanin

         

        Review Date: 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.

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