Which cells in a hair bulb are responsible for manufacturing melanin?

Melanocytes are the specialized cells in the hair bulb responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives hair its color. These cells play a crucial role in determining the shade of an individual's hair by synthesizing melanin through a process called melanogenesis. The melanin is then transferred to keratinocytes in the hair follicle, which incorporates it into the hair shaft during its formation.

Understanding the function of melanocytes is essential for haircolorists, as the presence and type of melanin in the hair can affect color formulation, resulting in various hues ranging from blonde to black. It’s also relevant when considering techniques such as highlighting or lowlighting, where the natural pigmentation is a vital aspect.

In contrast, keratinocytes are primarily involved in the production of keratin, the structural protein that makes up the hair, skin, and nails. Mast cells are involved in immune responses and are not directly related to melanin production. Fibroblasts are connective tissue cells that produce collagen and elastin, contributing to the structural integrity of skin, but they do not function in the production of hair color.