Fitzpatrick scale

The Fitzpatrick Scale (aka Fitzpatrick skin typing test or Fitzpatrick phototyping scale) is a numerical classification schema for the color of skin. It was developed in 1975 by Thomas B. Fitzpatrick, a Harvard dermatologist, as a way to classify the response of different types of skin to UV light. It remains a recognized tool for dermatologic research into the color of skin.

It measures several components: Genetic Disposition, Reaction to Sun Exposure and Tanning Habits

The Fitzpatrick Scale:

• Type I (scores 0-7) White; very fair; freckles; typical albino skin.

Always burns, never tans

• Type II (scores 8-16) White; fair.

Usually burns, tans with difficulty

• Type III (scores 17-25) Beige; very common.

Sometimes mild burn, gradually tans to a light brown

• Type IV (scores 25-30) Beige with a brown tint; typical Mediterranean Caucasian skin.

Rarely burns, tans with ease to a moderate brown.

• Type V (scores over 30) Dark brown.

Very rarely burns, tans very easily

• Type VI Black.

Never burns, tans very easily, deeply pigmented.

References

• Fitzpatrick TB: Soleil et peau. J Med Esthet 1975;2:33034.