tanning response

The tanning response is the skin's way of protecting itself from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. When UV rays hit your skin, specialized cells called melanocytes produce a pigment called melanin. Melanin darkens the skin, forming a tan that helps absorb and disperse UV damage, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin injury. This response is a natural defense mechanism to minimize DNA damage caused by sun exposure, and its intensity can vary based on genetics and the amount of UV exposure.