“Neither a doctor nor a philosopher can completely understand it, although they can explore its infiniteness. Skin has become both the master of our destiny and appearance.” Dr Sharad P. Paul. spfcSkinABiographyThis impeccably researched new book critically examines what unites and segregates the human race in equal measure: our skin. Dr Sharad P. Paul’s acclaimed biography explores everything there is to know about the history’s single-biggest contributor to prejudice and inequality.   With a focus on science and biology, Skin: A Biography explodes the myths – many of which are inspired by a racial bias - and instead reveals previously undisclosed facts about the body’s largest and most unique organ.   Penned with the layman in mind, Dr Paul eloquently considers skin’s genetic make-up and its history and evolution. He also discusses its biological purpose and its fascinating, innate ability to adapt to specific geographical environments. Who knew, for instance, that white skin is equally as susceptible to cold weather as dark skin? Or that the skin of the polar bear is, in fact, black?   But Skin: A Biography is far more than a simple tale of evolution. It promises to debunk the views of racial superiority by analysing the reasons for different skin tones and how pigmentation is largely due to and affected by melanin, sunshine and Vitamin D. When early Africans moved to northern Europe, Dr Paul explains, their skin adapted to the lower levels of sunshine by becoming more transparent – or ‘lighter’ – so as to better absorb Vitamin D when it was available. It goes to explore the differences in skin types in relation to anthropology, genetics, biochemistry and colour.   Skin: A Biography isn’t the first and only book on the subject. But it is the first to draw on the celebrated career of one of the world’s pre-eminent authorities on skin cancer and skin surgery. Dr Paul is a senior lecturer in skin cancer at the University of Queensland, Australia, the founder of New Zealand’s largest practices, and the holder of the Chair’s Award, New Zealand’s highest medical honour. His research for Skin: A Biography was extensive, and has since helped the medical industry to provide patients with more effective treatment.   As Dr Paul himself explains, skin is, in fact, evolutionary perfection – “…interesting to people because it is sufficiently changeable and unpredictable, making it both mysterious and attractive”.   Written to appeal to a wide, mainstream audience - particularly those interested in science, biology and evolution - Skin: A Biography is a compelling read that promises to spark conversation and encourage debate.   This is a book well worth reading. Skin: A Biography (HarperCollins/4th Estate) is out now RRP £19.99. Visit bacigroup.com for more information.