In which layer of the skin is melanin pigment accumulated and what is its role?

Melanin is the pigment in the skin that gives it color. It is found in the cells of the epidermis. The role of melanin is primarily protective. People with darker skin are more resistant to UV rays. This is important in hot and sunny regions. That is, tanning is a way of protecting the body with the help of melanin. This pigment also colors our hair and the iris of the eye. There is a congenital pathology when a person does not have this pigment. This disease is called albinism. A person has a very high probability of developing diseases associated with the influence of sunlight.