What Is Melanin and Why Is It So Important?

Melanin is a natural pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin’s basal layer, responsible for the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. What is melanin? It is a substance that also protects the skin and eyes from harmful UV radiation. Factors like genetics, sun exposure, hormonal changes, medications, and diseases such as Addison’s can affect melanin levels. Excess melanin causes hyperpigmentation, while low melanin can lead to conditions like vitiligo and albinism.