Why are a red nipples and aureoles pink instead of darker brown?

The color of nipples and areolas is influenced by several factors, including genetics, hormones, and blood flow.

_Genetics_:

The production of melanin, which gives skin its color, is influenced by genes. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition for lighter or darker nipples and areolas.

_Hormones_:

The color of these areas can also change due to hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's life, such as during pregnancy, when they often darken. Estrogen and progesterone, which increase during pregnancy, stimulate the melanocytes in the skin to produce more melanin.

_Blood Flow_:

Increased blood flow to the breasts can also contribute to a pink or reddish color. This can occur due to sexual arousal or breastfeeding, both of which cause engorgement and dilation of blood vessels in the breasts.

Darker brown nipples are commonly associated with darker skin tones, as melanin production is generally higher in individuals with darker skin. However, it's important to note that there is a wide range of normal variation in nipple and areola color, and there is no one "correct" color.