Definition: The word "white" refers to the color perception of most individuals. The term "melanin," however, refers specifically to a pigment found on the skin that is responsible for different shades of yellow, blue, green, or red. Melanin is primarily produced by melanocytes, which are specialized cells located in the epidermis and other parts of the skin. These cells produce and secrete pigments, including melanin, into the epidermis, thus giving them their characteristic yellowish-brown coloration. The amount and type of melanin found on a person's skin can vary widely, depending on factors such as genetics and environmental exposure. In some cultures, people are classified as "white" based on the presence or absence of melanin in their skin, which is known as "melanism." People who do not have melanin in their skin (those referred to as "black" or "grayish white") are often considered less socially acceptable or perceived as less sophisticated, since they lack this characteristic. However, this classification is largely an evolutionary advantage and does not necessarily reflect the actual makeup of a person's skin. The term "melanin" also encompasses the pigment melanin itself, which contains proteins that help regulate the production and distribution of melanin in various parts of the body. While melanin plays a crucial role in the function of pigments such as hair色素和teigin色素，it is not considered part of the definition of white skin because it has no specific meaning or significance in terms of identity or status. In summary, while "white" refers to color perception based on light exposure and individual genetic makeup, melanin (pigment) is a critical pigment found in the epidermis that gives one skin a characteristic yellowish-brown color. The term "melanin" can also refer to the pigment itself or its function within the body.

Do white people have melanin in their skin?