Melanin is a pigment found in hair, skin and iris. They are formed by special cells present in the body called melanocytes. But there are times due to deficiency or destruction of these cells, melanin is not formed. The main function of melanin is to provide protection against the sun, which may cause premature aging of the skin and even in severe cases melanoma or carcinoma. This occurs because melanin attacks the free radicals that are produced in the body and hence stops the premature aging. This also helps in uncontrolled division of the cells of the skin and in this manner reduces risk of skin cancers. Melanin is a pigment that needs to be supplemented in the Caucasian race especially, in order to save themselves from the harmful effects of the sun.