What are pigment cells in the skin known as?

Pigment cells in the skin are known as melanocytes. These specialized cells are responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color. Melanocytes are located primarily in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, and they play a crucial role in protecting the skin from UV radiation by absorbing harmful rays and preventing DNA damage. The amount and type of melanin produced by melanocytes can vary among individuals, leading to different skin tones and responses to sun exposure.

Keratinocytes are the primary cells found in the epidermis, responsible for forming the protective outer barrier of the skin but do not produce pigment. Erythrocytes are red blood cells, which carry oxygen in the bloodstream, and dermatocytes is not a standard term used in the context of skin cells. Thus, melanocytes are specifically identified for their role in pigment production.