Why do some people have darker skin than others?
Quick Answer
Skin color is mainly determined by how much melanin the body produces and how it is distributed in the skin. Many genes influence this trait, and it evolved partly as an adaptation to different levels of ultraviolet sunlight.
The Full Story
Melanin is the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes much of their color. People with darker skin generally produce more eumelanin, which provides stronger protection against ultraviolet radiation. Skin color is controlled by many genes, including ones affecting melanin production, transport, and distribution. Over human evolution, skin color adapted to local sunlight levels, balancing protection from UV damage with the need to make vitamin D in low-light environments.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why human skin comes in so many shades"
Was this answer helpful?
Tap a reaction — it helps us pick what to cover next.