cell producing melanin, pigment for skin, hair, eyes
A melanocyte is a type of cell found in the skin, eyes, and hair follicles that produces melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of your skin, hair, and eyes. These cells play a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful UV radiation by absorbing and dissipating it. In conditions like vitiligo or certain types of alopecia, the function or presence of melanocytes can be disrupted, leading to changes in pigmentation.