What is the name of the special cells that produce skin pigment?

The special cells that produce skin pigment are known as melanocytes. These cells are found primarily in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, and their primary function is to synthesize melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation by absorbing and dissipating light energy.

Keratinocytes, while important for skin structure and barrier function, are primarily responsible for producing keratin, a protein that helps form the protective layer of skin. Langerhans cells are part of the immune response in the skin and play a role in detecting pathogens. Fibroblasts are responsible for producing collagen and elastin, which provide support and elasticity to the skin, but they do not produce pigment. Thus, melanocytes are uniquely designated for pigment production, making them the correct answer.