SKIN COLORNotes in Notebook

MelanocytesMelanocytes = cells in stratum basale that

produce differing amounts of the pigment melanin

Approximate # of melanocytes same in all ethnicities

There are 2 main types of melanin:

EUMELANIN brown/black melanins

PHAEOMELANINred/yellow melanins

*Variations in hair and skin color are due to varying of eumelanin and phaeomelanin

amountsproduced by melanocytes

Other Pigments CAROTENE:

Yellow-orange pigment Located mostly in STRATUM CORNEUM

HEMOGLOBIN: Red pigment Carries oxygen in red blood cells

Other Pigments

Skin Color Disorders Jaundice

Skin color is yellowish Due to accumulation of bile in the blood

Skin Color Disorders Erythema

Redness of skin Caused by engorgement of capillaries

Skin Color Disorders Vitiligo

Loss of skin pigment; immune cells attack melanocytes

Appearance is pale patches of skin

Skin Color Disorders Cyanosis

Bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes caused by lack of oxygen in the blood

Skin Color Disorders Pallid

Pale skin complexion Possible causes include:

emotional response or anemia

Skin Color Disorders Albinism

Lack of melanin pigment Melanocytes cannot produce melanin