Fitzpatrick skin phototype

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What is Fitzpatrick skin phototype?

Fitzpatrick skin type (or phototype) describes a way of classifying skin by its reaction to exposure to sunlight.

What is the Fitzpatrick skin phototype based on?

Fitzpatrick skin type (or phototype) depends on the amount of melanin pigment in the skin This is determined by the constitutional color (white, brown or black skin) and the result of exposure to Ultraviolet radiation (tanned). Pale or white skin burns easily and tans slowly and poorly: it needs more protection from sun exposure. Darker skin burns less and tans more easily. It is also more likely to develop post-inflammatory pigmentation after injury (brown marks).

The Fitzpatrick skin phototype is a constitutional characteristic present at birth. Please note that people with photosensitivity may burn easily when exposed to the sun due to an illness, condition, or medication; however, its tanning ability is not influenced by its photosensitivity.

Fitzpatrick's classification

Fitzpatrick's classification of skin phototype is shown in the table below.

Fitzpatrick skin type
Type of skin	Typical Properties	Tanning capacity
me	Pale white skin, blue/green eyes, blonde/red. hair	It always burns, it doesn't tan
II	Light skin, blue eyes	Burns easily, tans poorly
III	Darker white skin	Tanning after the initial burn
IV	Light brown leather	Burns minimally, tans easily
V	Brown leather	Rarely burns, tans dark easily
SAW	Dark brown or black skin	Never burns, always tans dark