Skin Types/Fitzpatrick Classification Scale

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Overview

Dermatologists use the Fitzpatrick Classification Scale to classify a person's complexion and tolerance to sunlight. The Fitzpatrick scale classifies skin types from I to VI.

Fitzpatrick Classification Scale

• Type I – Very white or freckled skin, always burns with sun exposure (very fair; often in people with red or blond hair and blue eyes)

• Type II – White skin, usually burns with sun exposure (fair; often in people with red or blond hair and blue, green, or hazel eyes)

• Type III – White or olive skin tone, sometime burns with sun exposure (fair; seen in people with any hair or eye color)

• Type IV – Brown skin, rarely burns with sun exposure (common in people of Mediterranean descent)

• Type V – Dark brown skin, very rarely burns with sun exposure (common in people of Middle-Eastern descent)

• Type VI – Black skin, never burns with sun exposure

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