SSC CGL
MediumQ. No. the-pigment-that-gives-colour-to-human-skin-is
The pigment that gives colour to human skin is
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AHaemoglobin
BKeratin
CMelanin
DCarotene
Correct Answer: MelaninYour Answer: C
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✅ Correct Answer: C — Melanin
Melanin is the pigment produced by specialized cells called Melanocytes in the epidermis (outermost skin layer). More melanin = darker skin (protection from UV). Less melanin = lighter skin. Melanin also determines hair and eye color. It absorbs and dissipates UV radiation, protecting DNA from UV damage.
❌ Why other options are wrong:
• A. Haemoglobin — Haemoglobin is the red-colored protein in RBCs that carries oxygen; it gives blood its red color, not skin color.
• B. Keratin — Keratin is a structural protein in skin, hair, and nails providing strength and waterproofing; it doesn't give color.
• D. Carotene — Carotene (beta-carotene) can give a slight yellowish tint to skin when consumed in large amounts (carrots); it is not the primary skin pigment.
📝 Important Note: Melanin = Skin color pigment (produced by Melanocytes). Albinism = absence of melanin (white skin, pink eyes). Vitiligo = loss of melanocytes in patches. More melanin = more UV protection. People near the equator have more melanin. SSC CGL skin biology key topic.
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