Skin & Complexion 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
