The maturation process of melanosomes in dark and light skin types
Figure III: This figure was obtained from Bastonini, 2016
Figure III shows the variation in size and stages of maturation of melanosomes between light and dark skin
types, as seen darker-skinned individuals have larger and matured melanosomes in comparison to lighter-
skinned toned individuals.
The effects of ethnicity on skin diseases
In addition to providing variation in skin pigmentation, melanin also has protective effects against ultraviolet
radiation (UV) (Miyamura et al., 2010). UV contributes to the majority of skin defects including, inflammation,
aging, and skin cancer.
Brenner and Hearing have suggested that lighter-skinned individuals are 70 times more likely to obtain skin
cancer compared to individuals that are light skin. This is because melanin has a protective shield effect by
behaving as a physical barrier and scattering UV radiation. It is also suggested that melanin can act as a filter to
reduce the amount of UV penetrating the epidermis and thus reducing risks of obtaining skin cancers (Kaidbey
et al., 1979).
Asides from skin cancer there are multiple disorders of the skin that can cause serious harm to individuals of all
ethnic backgrounds, one of these is known as Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD). This skin disorder usually causes
skin inflammation due to various irritants such as soaps, perfumes, and cosmetic products (Brasch et al., 2014).
This irritation can occur to all ethnic groups; however, it has been suggested that some ethnic groups may be
more sensitive to irritant contact dermatitis. A study by Marshal et al., 1919 concluded that 59% of Caucasians
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