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 Fitzpatrick
phototype - Sun-reactive skin classifications
The classification of skin type known as the Fitzpatrick
skin type (or phototype) depends on the amount of melanin
pigment in the skin. This is determined by constitutional
color (white, brown or black skin) and the result of
exposure to ultraviolet radiation (tanning). Pale or
white skin burns easily and tans slowly and poorly:
it needs more protection against sun exposure. Darker
skin burns less and tans more easily. It is also more
prone to develop post-inflammatory pigmentation after
injury (brown marks).
Fitzpatrick Scale of Skin Types
| Type |
Description |
| 1 |
Always burning, never tan; sensitive to exposure;
redheaded, frecklesCeltic background |
| 2 |
Burns easily, tans minimally; fair-skinned, blue,
green or gray eyesCaucasians |
| 3 |
Burns moderately, tans gradually to light brown;
Average Caucasian skin |
| 4 |
Burns minimally, always tans well to moderately
brown; olive skinAsian, Hispanic, Mediterranean |
| 5 |
Rarely burns, tans profusely to dark; brown skinEast
Indians, Hispanics |
| 6 |
Rarely burns, least sensitive to sun; deeply pigmented
skinAfricans, African Americans, Australians, South
Indians, Aborigines |
Skin Typing Evaluation and Patient Evaluation Form
This information will help our office to better evaluate
your skin type so the laser treatment will be more effective.
Skin type is often categorized according to the Fitzpatrick
skin type scale, which ranges from very fair (skin type
I) to very dark (skin type VI). The two main factors
that influence skin type and the treatment program devised
by your practitioner are:
o Genetic disposition
o Reaction to sun exposure and tanning habits
Skin type is determined genetically and is one of the
many aspects of your overall appearance, which also
includes the color of your eyes, hair, etc. The way
your skin responds to sun exposure is another way of
correctly assessing your skin type. Recent tanning,
whether by the sun or an artificial tanning booth, even
tanning creams, can have a major impact on your skin
color evaluation. By using the information you provide
on this form, we can be better prepared to provide you
with the best care. Please take a few minutes to complete
this questionnaire.
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