Eumelanin is a type of pigment found in the skin, hair, and eyes of many organisms, including humans. It is responsible for dark colors, such as black and brown, and plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The more eumelanin a person has, the darker their skin or hair tends to be, which can help reduce the risk of skin damage. There are two main types of melanin: eumelanin and pheomelanin. While eumelanin provides darker shades, pheomelanin contributes to lighter colors, such as red and yellow. The balance between these two types of melanin influences an individual's overall appearance and can be affected by factors like genetics and sun exposure.