Melanin Pigmentation

IN the basal layer of the human epidermis there are approximately two billion specialized unicellular secretory glands weighing as a group about 1 gm.1 , 2 These unique cells are called melanocytes because they secrete into the epidermal cells an amorphous brown pigment known as melanin (Greek melas, melanos, black). The biochrome, melanin, is largely responsible for the tinctorial differences that exist in the skin, hair and eyes of man. Its importance for man does not stop there, however. Melanin is necessary, if not essential, for survival; without melanin, man would be required to live under cover or reside in the sunless . . .