Skin pigmentation refers to the coloration of the skin, influenced primarily by the pigment melanin. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes, providing our skin, hair, and eyes with their distinctive colors. Levels of melanin vary among individuals, contributing to the diversity of skin tones we see.
Various factors influence skin pigmentation, including genetic makeup, sun exposure, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. Overexposure to the sun stimulates the production of melanin, often leading to darker or uneven skin tones. Hormonal influences, like those seen in pregnancy, can lead to melasma, a type of pigmentation disorder.