What substance protects the skin from UV radiation?

Melanin is the pigment produced by melanocytes in the skin, and it plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When skin is exposed to UV light, melanin absorbs and dissipates this radiation as heat, helping to prevent damage to the DNA in skin cells that can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. This protective mechanism is why individuals with higher levels of melanin typically have darker skin and a lower prevalence of UV-related skin issues.

Collagen, on the other hand, is a protein found in the dermis layer of the skin that provides structural support and strength but does not have the capability to shield the skin from UV radiation. Keratin is a protein that contributes to the protective barrier of the skin, hair, and nails, but it is not specifically responsible for UV protection. Similarly, elastin is a connective tissue protein that provides elasticity to the skin, but it does not serve a protective function against UV radiation. Thus, melanin stands out as the primary substance offering protection to the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.