Which pigment primarily contributes to the dark coloration of skin?

Melanin is the primary pigment responsible for the dark coloration of skin. This pigment is produced by melanocytes, which are specialized skin cells located in the epidermis. Melanin absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, providing some protection against UV damage. The quantity and type of melanin produced determine an individual's skin color; those with higher melanin levels tend to have darker skin tones.

In contrast, carotene, though it can contribute to skin coloration, is primarily found in the stratum corneum and in fatty tissues and is responsible for a yellowish hue. Oxyhemoglobin is the form of hemoglobin bound to oxygen and gives blood its red color, affecting skin tone indirectly but not as a pigment in the skin itself. Albumin is a protein found in blood plasma that is not related to skin pigmentation. Thus, melanin is the clear and correct answer when discussing the primary pigment contributing to the dark coloration of skin.