Fitzpatrick Skin Type Calculator

How does your skin typically react to sun exposure? –Select an option– Always burns, never tans Burns easily, tans minimally Burns moderately, tans gradually Burns minimally, tans well Rarely burns, tans deeply Never burns, deeply pigmented

What is your natural skin tone (untanned)? –Select an option– Pale white White, fair Light brown Moderate brown Dark brown Black

What is your natural hair color? –Select an option– Red or blond Blond or light brown Dark brown or chestnut Dark brown Black Black

What is your eye color? –Select an option– Blue, gray, or green Blue, gray, or green Blue, gray, or green Hazel or light brown Dark brown Dark brown

Understanding Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type

The Fitzpatrick scale, developed by dermatologist Thomas B. Fitzpatrick in 1975, is a numerical classification system used to measure a person's genetic predisposition to sun sensitivity and tanning ability. This classification is crucial in dermatology and cosmetic procedures, especially when considering treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, and microdermabrasion, as well as in advising on sun protection strategies. Understanding your skin type helps in predicting how your skin will react to sun exposure and various treatments.

The Six Skin Types:

Type I: Characterized by very fair skin, often with freckles, light blonde or red hair, and blue or green eyes. These individuals always burn when exposed to the sun and never tan. They are at the highest risk of sun damage and skin cancer.
Type II: Fair skin, often with blonde hair and blue/green/hazel eyes. They burn very easily and tan minimally. They are still at a significant risk of sun damage.
Type III: Light brown to white skin, with light to dark brown hair and blue/green/hazel eyes. They burn moderately and tan gradually. This is a common skin type in many ethnicities and has a moderate risk of sun damage.
Type IV: Moderate brown skin, often with dark brown hair and brown eyes. They burn minimally and tan well. Their risk of sun damage is lower compared to lighter skin types.
Type V: Dark brown skin, typically with black hair and dark brown eyes. They rarely burn and tan deeply. These skin types are less sensitive to UV radiation but can still experience sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
Type VI: Black or very dark brown skin, with black hair and dark brown eyes. They never burn and are deeply pigmented. While less susceptible to sunburn, they can still experience hyperpigmentation and are at risk for certain skin cancers.

Why Knowing Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type Matters:

Sun Protection: Individuals with Type I and II skin need to be particularly diligent with sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to prevent burns and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Cosmetic Procedures: Different skin types respond differently to treatments like laser hair removal, intense pulsed light (IPL), and resurfacing procedures. For example, darker skin types (IV-VI) have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation after certain laser treatments, requiring specific protocols and wavelengths.
Tanning: The scale helps predict tanning ability, which is relevant for cosmetic tanning or understanding natural skin color changes.

Our Fitzpatrick Skin Type Calculator provides an estimation based on your answers to key questions about your skin's reaction to the sun, natural skin tone, hair color, and eye color. While this calculator offers a useful guide, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist for a definitive assessment and personalized advice.