Albinos have an abnormal gene that restricts the body from producing melanin.

But why do our cells stop producing melanin as we age?

Pigment spots arise from expression of the yellow gene, whose product produces black melanin.

However, the olm's skin retains the ability to produce melanin.

These cells produce melanin, which are pigments that cause discoloration or dark spots in gums.

Melanocytes are cells in the outer layer of skin (epidermis) that produce melanin.

Through a process called melanogenesis, these cells produce melanin, which is a pigment found in the skin, eyes, and hair.

The epidermis also contains cells that produce melanin, which gives skin its color.

Hair color is created by pigment cells producing melanin in the hair follicle.

Researchers have discovered that melanocytes endure cumulative damage over the years, which eventually leaves them unable to produce melanin.