What is the term for the natural pigment found in hair?

The term for the natural pigment found in hair is melanin. Melanin is a complex polymer that provides color to various parts of the body, including skin and hair. It is produced by specialized cells known as melanocytes, and the amount and type of melanin determines the specific color of an individual's hair.

In contrast, keratin is a type of protein that makes up the structure of hair, contributing to its strength and resilience, but it does not provide color. Collagen is another protein found in the body, primarily in connective tissues, and it does not directly involve hair pigmentation. Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants, which is unrelated to hair color. Understanding the role of melanin is essential in fields like cosmetology, especially when dealing with hair coloring and treatment.