Skin Colour

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Skin colour is one of the most easily seen features of a person. It ranges in variety from the darkest brown to the lightest pinkish-white. Skin colour is mainly determined by melanin, a pigment produced in the first layer of the skin (epidermis).

Impact of Gene Variants

Genetics plays a significant role in determining human skin colour. There is not only one gene that decides what colour your skin is. In fact, scientists are still not sure how many genes can affect skin pigmentation, but some estimates show that over 150 could be involved. Both the amount and type of melanin produced is controlled by a number of genes that operate under incomplete dominance.

Ways to Recognize Problems

Problems with skin colour can be identified through symptoms such as discoloured skin patches (abnormal pigmentation), dry skin, open sores, lesions or ulcers, peeling skin, rashes, possibly with itchiness or pain, red, white or pus-filled bumps, and scaly or rough skin.

Ways to Improve

Here are some ways to improve your skin colour: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, avoid certain foods and drinks, apply mixtures with natural lighteners like lemon juice, honey, turmeric, or papaya to your face and skin.

Did you know

Skin color diversity evolved as an adaptation to various levels of UV radiation exposure.