Eumelanin is a type of melanin, a natural pigment found in many organisms, including humans. It is primarily responsible for the dark colors in hair, skin, and eyes. Eumelanin comes in two forms: black and brown, with the black variant being more prevalent in individuals with darker skin tones.
This pigment plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. By absorbing UV light, eumelanin helps reduce the risk of skin damage and lowers the chances of developing skin cancer. Its presence is also linked to various biological functions and aesthetic traits in different species.