NIC Esthetician Written ExamScientific ConceptsEasy
A client has recently undergone a chemical peel and is advised to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. The esthetician explains that this is crucial to protect against both UVA and UVB radiation. Which component of the integumentary system is primarily responsible for producing the pigment that offers some natural protection against UV radiation?
- AKeratinocytes
- BMelanocytes
- CLangerhans cells
- DMerkel cells
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Melanocytes
Melanocytes are specialized cells located in the stratum basale of the epidermis that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and natural protection against UV radiation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Keratinocytes are the primary cells of the epidermis, producing keratin, but not the pigment melanin.
- C. Langerhans cells are immune cells in the epidermis, involved in immune responses, not pigment production.
- D. Merkel cells are touch receptors found in the stratum basale, involved in sensation, not pigmentation.
Melanocytes
Cells located in the stratum basale of the epidermis that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color and UV protection.
- Produce melanin
- Located in stratum basale
- Protect against UV radiation
Memory trick: Melanocytes Make Melanin for UV protection.