What is melanin's primary function?

Melanin's primary function is to give skin and eyes their color. This pigment is produced by melanocytes found in the skin, hair, and eyes and plays a crucial role in determining an individual's skin tone and pigmentation. Melanin absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, providing some protection to the underlying cells from UV damage, which can lead to skin cancer.

In addition to coloring, melanin also contributes to the overall appearance of the skin and eyes, affecting aspects such as depth and tone. The presence of melanin is genetically determined, and individuals with higher concentrations of melanin in their skin generally have darker skin tones, which provides more natural protection against sun damage.