Understanding Black Skin: Melanin & Skin Pigmentation

Black is not the absence of color in skin pigment. Skin color is determined by melanin, which is a pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes. People with more melanin have darker skin, hair, and eyes, while people with less melanin have lighter skin, hair, and eyes. Black skin is the result of a high concentration of melanin in the skin.