Fitzpatrick Skin Types & spf

It is important to understand the Skin Type in order to determine how to treat it. This scale has proven to be a very useful tool for me so I decided to share the knowledge with you. The scale is from 1-5 and depends on the amount of melanin in the skin. The Fitzpatrick Classification Scale was developed in 1975 by Harvard Medical School dermatologist, Thomas Fitzpatrick, MD, PhD. This scale classifies a person's complexion and their tolerance of sunlight. It is used by many practitioners to determine how someone will respond or react to facial treatments, and how likely they are to get skin cancer. It is just a guideline.



I
Pale white skin, blue/hazel eyes, blond/red hair
Always burns, does not tan
This phototype is extremely susceptible to skin damage and skin cancer. Wear at least 30 spf everyday!
II
Fair skin, blue eyes
Burns easily, tans poorly
This phototype is extremely susceptible to skin damage and skin cancer. Wear at least 30 spf everyday!
III
Darker white skin
Tans after initial burn
This phototype is moderately susceptible to skin damage and skin cancer. Wear at least 15 spf everyday!
IV
Light brown skin
Burns minimally, tans easily
This phototype is moderately susceptible to skin damage and skin cancer. Wear at least 15 spf everyday!
V
Brown skin
Rarely burns, tans darkly easily
This phototype is less likely to skin damage but moderately to skin cancer. Wear at least 15 spf everyday!
VI
Dark brown or black skin
Never burns, always tans darkly
This phototype is less likely to skin damage but moderately to skin cancer. Wear at least 15 spf everyday!