More active melanocytes will produce which of the following?

Active melanocytes produce more melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of the skin, hair, and eyes. When melanocytes increase their activity, especially in response to factors like sun exposure, hormonal changes, or certain conditions, they produce larger amounts of melanin. This results in darker skin tones, as melanin serves as a natural protector against UV radiation by absorbing and dissipating the energy from sunlight.

Darker skin is therefore a direct outcome of increased melanin production, which enhances the skin's pigmentation. Understanding this concept is crucial for estheticians as it relates to skin care practices, the importance of sun protection for all skin types, and the need for customized treatments based on individual skin pigmentation and conditions.