The pigment that gives color to human skin is melanin. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are located in the skin`s epidermis. Melanin production is influenced by various factors, including genetics, exposure to sunlight, and certain hormones. Melanin plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful UV radiation from the sun. It absorbs UV rays and helps prevent them from damaging the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to sunburn and skin cancer. The amount of melanin in the skin determines its color, with more melanin resulting in darker skin tones. Melanin is responsible for variations in skin color among different racial and ethnic groups.