Melanin production in the skin helps to protect against what?

Melanin production in the skin plays a crucial role in protecting against UV radiation. Melanin is a pigment produced by melanocytes, which are specialized cells located primarily in the epidermis. When skin is exposed to sunlight, particularly ultraviolet (UV) radiation, melanin absorbs and dissipates this radiation, reducing the risk of DNA damage in skin cells. This protective mechanism helps to lower the chances of sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancers associated with excessive UV exposure.

While the skin does have other protective functions, such as acting as a barrier to pathogens or helping to regulate temperature, melanin’s primary and significant role is its ability to mitigate the harmful effects of UV rays.