Does Melanin Block Vitamin D?

Skin pigmentation, i.e., melanin, absorbs the UVR that initiates vitamin D synthesis, and hence decreases the vitamin D that is made for a given exposure compared to less pigmented skin. This has been observed in UVR intervention studies [7] and more generally.

Does melanin cause vitamin D deficiency?

Melanin is the pigment that provides skin color, and individuals with darker skin have more of it than those with lighter skin. Having more melanin reduces your ability to synthesize vitamin D from the sun, resulting in lower 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, according to the ODS.

Does dark skin absorb less vitamin D?

Low vitamin D is widespread

Among Americans of color, the vitamin D deficiency rate jumps to 70%. Pigment in persons with darker skin blocks sunlight absorption, a key process for vitamin D production.