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Natural pigment

Melanin and skin colour

Melanin is produced by melanocytes and distributed through the epidermis. Its amount, type and distribution contribute to visible colour.

In breve

Punti essenziali

  • Natural pigment
  • Several forms
  • Part of UV defence
  • Reduced in vitiligo patches
01

Colour and protection

Melanin absorbs and disperses part of ultraviolet radiation. It does not provide complete protection, and depigmented areas need additional UV precautions.

02

Melanin is not the only factor

Blood flow, skin thickness, carotenoids and lighting also affect visible colour, while vitiligo specifically reflects loss of functioning melanocytes.

Base editoriale

Editorial basis: current AWMF S2k guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of vitiligo, register 013-093, version 2.0 dated 27 July 2026. Reviewed on 2 September 2026.

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