Action Spectrum for the Production of Vitamin D

The action spectrum for vitamin D production describes how effectively different wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light trigger the skin to produce vitamin D. Sunlight contains various UV rays, but only specific wavelengths, mainly in the UVB range (about 290-320 nanometers), stimulate the chemical process that converts a precursor in the skin into vitamin D. Beyond this range, UV light is less effective or can be harmful. This spectrum helps us understand which types of sunlight are best for vitamin D synthesis while minimizing risk, such as skin damage from excessive UV exposure.