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Skin tone is a significant aspect of appearance, influencing confidence and self-perception. Melanin, a natural pigment, is crucial in determining skin colour, hair, and eyes. It is derived from the amino acid tyrosine and produced by melanocytes, found in the innermost layer of the skin and hair follicles.
Factors Influencing Melanin Levels
Genetics, age, hormonal changes, and sun exposure influence the amount of melanin in the body. Sun exposure triggers the release of hormones that bind to melanin-producing cells, increasing melanin production.
Different Types Of Melanin
There are three main types of melanin in the human body:
- Eumelanin: Responsible for skin and hair pigmentation, with two subtypes – brown and black. Higher concentrations of black eumelanin result in a darker complexion.
- Pheomelanin: Causes the pink colour in lips, vagina, nipples, and penis glans.
- Neuromelanin: Found in the brain, it imparts colour to neurons and helps prevent brain cell demise. Its deficiency is linked to neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease.
Functions And Benefits Of Melanin
Apart from determining colour, melanin serves various purposes in the body:
- UV Radiation Protection: Eumelanin protects the skin from harmful UV radiation. Individuals with higher levels of pheomelanin are more susceptible to sun damage.
- ROS Protection: Melanin shields against reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing cellular damage and the risk of diabetes and cancer.
- Temperature Regulation: Melanin absorbs and dissipates heat, aiding in controlling body temperature.
- Wound Healing: Melanin promotes cell regeneration, speeding up the healing process for skin-related wounds.
- Vitamin D Synthesis: Melanin contributes to vitamin D synthesis, essential for calcium absorption and overall health.
Imbalances In Melanin And Associated Disorders
An imbalance in melanin levels can lead to various disorders:
- Vitiligo: Characterized by a lack of melanin, resulting in pale skin and white patches.
- Albinism: Caused by a complete absence of melanin, affecting skin and eyes, with an increased risk of vision loss.
- Melasma: Excessive melanin synthesis leading to skin discolouration in specific areas.
Addressing imbalances and ensuring proper melanin levels is crucial for skin health, and individuals experiencing irregularities should consult a healthcare professional.
The Role Of Health Insurance
While maintaining optimal health is essential, unforeseen circumstances can lead to health issues. In such cases, having adequate financial support becomes crucial. Critical illness insurance provides financial assistance for emergency medical treatment. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the health insurance policy. *
These health insurance plans cover acute illnesses, including cancer and blindness, offering a safety net for unexpected health challenges. Exploring suitable health insurance plans for family coverage is essential for ensuring comprehensive healthcare protection for all members. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the health insurance policy. *
Melanin is a natural pigment that influences the appearance and health of our skin, hair, and eyes. Understanding its types and functions allows for a comprehensive grasp of its impact. Proper melanin levels contribute to skin health, and awareness of disorders associated with imbalances emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention for irregularities. Also, health insurance is a prudent financial strategy to handle unforeseen health crises effectively. You can use a health insurance premium calculator to estimate the prices of premiums to be paid. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under the health insurance policy. *
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Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
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