What are the factors that can affect skin pigmentation?

Skin pigmentation is influenced by a combination of genetic factors, sun exposure, and hormonal changes, making the choice of multiple contributing factors the most accurate.

Genetic factors play a crucial role in determining an individual's baseline skin color and the amount of melanin produced in the skin. Genetic variations can lead to differences in pigmentation among individuals of different ethnic backgrounds.

Sun exposure significantly affects skin pigmentation as ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulates the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for color in the skin. This process is a natural defense mechanism, resulting in a tan as the skin attempts to protect itself from the harmful effects of UV rays.

Hormonal changes can also influence skin pigmentation. For example, conditions such as pregnancy can cause an increase in melanin production, leading to changes in skin color, such as the darkening of the areolas or the development of melasma, often referred to as "the mask of pregnancy."

Given that all three factors interact and contribute to variations in skin pigmentation, the inclusion of genetic factors, sun exposure, and hormonal changes provides a comprehensive understanding of the influences on skin color.