Melanin is a pigment that is responsible for producing the pigmentation in our hair, skin, and eyes. It is a complex polymer that originates from the amino acid tyrosine. The amount of melanin in the body depends on a few different factors, including genetics and how much sun exposure your ancestral population had. The primary function of melanin is to provide pigmentation to the skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin also absorbs harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays and protects the cells from sun damage. In addition, melanin plays an important biological role by providing protection against UV light. Melanin helps protect the cells of the epidermis, or outer layer of the skin, from UV light by absorbing the UV light before it’s able to damage the sensitive DNA of the skin cells. Furthermore, studies suggest that melanin may aid in immune system support and the protection of the eyes and skin from sunlight.