Melanocyte

Melanocytes are specialized cells located in the skin, eyes, and hair follicles that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of our skin, hair, and eyes. They play a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation by absorbing and dispersing the sunlight. The amount and type of melanin produced by melanocytes determine an individual's skin tone. When skin is exposed to sunlight, these cells often increase production of melanin, leading to a tan. Disorders related to melanocytes can result in conditions such as vitiligo (loss of pigment) or melanoma (a type of skin cancer).