Which cells in the skin are responsible for producing melanin?

Melanocytes are the specialized cells in the skin responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and helps protect it from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These cells are primarily located in the basal layer of the epidermis, where they synthesize melanin from the amino acid tyrosine through a process called melanogenesis. Once produced, melanin is then transferred to surrounding keratinocytes, which incorporate it into their structure, thus providing pigmentation to the skin and hair.

The presence of melanin plays a crucial role in determining skin tone and also serves as a defense mechanism against UV damage, reducing the risk of skin cancers. The number of melanocytes remains relatively constant among individuals, but the amount of melanin they produce can vary significantly, which accounts for the differences in skin color across different populations.