Which pigment gives skin its color?

Melanin is the pigment responsible for giving skin its color. It is produced by specialized cells called melanocytes, which are located in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. The amount and type of melanin produced determines the skin tone of an individual, ranging from very light to very dark complexions. Melanin also plays a crucial role in protecting the skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, as it absorbs and dissipates UV light.

In contrast, keratin is a protein found in skin, hair, and nails that provides structure and protection but does not influence color. Collagen is another protein that contributes to skin strength and elasticity but has no role in pigmentation. Hemoglobin, which is found in red blood cells, gives blood its red color and can influence skin tone slightly due to blood flow, but it is not the primary pigment responsible for the inherent color of the skin itself.