Which Fitzpatrick skin type are you?
Understanding your skin type can not only help you avoid issues like sun damage and pigmentation, but is also a great way to decide which skin care treatments would best suit your needs. Everybody reacts differently to more advanced treatments like laser, chemical peels and dermabrasion, however, certain skin types are better suited to some of these services than others.
Fitzpatrick skin type is a way of classifying skin types with specific reference to the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. It was developed in 1975 by American dermatologist Thomas B. Fitzpatrick, as a way to estimate the response of different types of skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. Categorising our skin into one of the six types by it’s ability to tolerate sun exposure, from fair (Type 1) to dark (Type 6) skin.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 1
Typical Features
Pale white skin, blue/green eyes, blond/red hair
Tanning Ability
Always burns, does not tan.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 2
Typical Features
Fair skin, blue eyes
Tanning Ability
Burns easily, tans poorly.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 3
Typical Features
Darker white skin
Tanning Ability
Tans after initial burn.
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 4
Typical Features
Light brown skin
Tanning Ability
Burns minimally, tans easily
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 5
Typical Features
Brown skin
Tanning Ability
Rarely burns, tans darkly easily
Fitzpatrick Skin Type 6
Typical Features
Dark brown or black skin
Tanning Ability
Never burns, always tans darkly.