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Melanin (/ ˈ m ɛ l ə n ɪ n / ⓘ; from Ancient Greek μέλας (mélas) 'black, dark') is a family of biomolecules organized as oligomers or polymers, which among other functions provide the pigments of many organisms. [1] Melanin pigments are produced in a specialized group of cells known as melanocytes.
Melanin is a dark pigment primarily responsible for skin color. Once synthesized, melanin is contained in special organelles called melanosomes which can be transported to nearby keratinocytes to induce pigmentation. Thus darker skin tones have more melanosomes present than lighter skin tones.
Hyperpigmentation results from an increase in melanin synthesis, which is mostly brought on by sun exposure, dermatological disorders, hormones, aging, genetic factors, skin injuries or inflammation, and acne. Sun exposure, which greatly increases the synthesis of melanin, is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation.
$34.00 at amazon.com. Why you might have gray hair in your 20s: ⮕ What it probably is: Genetics. As mentioned, melanin production will decrease as we age (among the other ~wonderful~ things that ...
It is caused by melanocyte or melanin depletion, or a decrease in the amino acid tyrosine, which is used by melanocytes to make melanin. [2] Some common genetic causes include mutations in the tyrosinase gene or OCA2 gene. [3] [4] As melanin pigments tend to be in the skin, eye, and hair, these are the commonly affected areas in those with ...
Eumelanin is the dominant form of melanin found in human skin. Eumelanin protects tissues and DNA from radiation damage by UV light. Melanin is produced in specialized cells called melanocytes, which are found in the lowest level of the epidermis. [85] Melanin is produced inside small membrane-bound packages called melanosomes.
Tanning involves not just the increased melanin production in response to UV radiation but the thickening of the top layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum. [9] A person's natural skin color affects their reaction to exposure to the sun. Generally, those who start out with darker skin color and more melanin have better abilities to tan.
Tyrosinase activity is very important. If uncontrolled during the synthesis of melanin, it results in increased melanin synthesis. Decreasing tyrosinase activity has been targeted for the improvement or prevention of conditions related to the hyperpigmentation of the skin, such as melasma and age spots. [22]