Differences between MPOD and Skin Carotenoid Dynamics:
Image from reference 9: Arunkumar R, et al.
The dynamics of carotenoid accumulation in the skin are generally faster than macula deposition.
It takes about 3-6 months of supplementation to measure significant change in MPOD, and retinal concentrations will remain elevated for a relatively long period of time in the absence of excessive oxidative stress or inflammation.
After stopping supplementation MPOD returns to baseline levels in roughly 9-12 months.1