Category: Skin | 6-Minute Read
Skin Phototypes
I did a poll recently on my Instagram and on The Asian Skin & Hair Forum, which showed that the majority of my followers underestimated the number of skin types that exist.
What are skin phototypes?
Skin Phototypes are skin types based on how skin responds to sun exposure.
There are six skin phototypes, and they range from the skin that burns easily to skin that tans profusely. The skin type you have determines how much sun exposure you can handle without damage, so it’s important to work out your skin phototype!
Skin types are categorised from the palest complexion to the darkest complexion as the composition and characteristics of the skin change as they increase in skin tone.
We call this the Fitzpatrick Skin Phototypes.
Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype
Now, if you are a skin-devotee then you may have heard of Fitzpatrick types 1-6 or I-VI.
If not, don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for!
The skin complexions are divided into 6 types.
As a general rule, Caucasians fit with I, II, and occasionally III, Asians fit within III, IV and maybe V and Afro-Caribbeans fit within V and VI.
The system classifies skin type according to skin colour, easy to observe by the eye. The level of melanin that is distributed over the skin (epidermis) and in the skin cells (melanocytes) determines the skin pigmentation.
The Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype system uses a colour chart which can be a benchmark to assess the cancer risk and the skin damage due to UV exposure. The skin pigmentation measures the skin colour against the 6 main skin tones.
As you can see there is no such clear definition, with general overlap within the Asian section, which is why I believe that there needs to be more awareness and education about caring for Asians who may be fair like Caucasian skin, a darker tone like those of Afro-Caribbean origin or in the middle, like me!
Now all this tells us is how your skin responds to trauma. What we now need to know is what we need to treat…
This is where the sub-types come in!
Which Skin Type do you think you are?
Self-assess your skin tone by using the chart below! Is there any surprising result? Let me know in your comments!
Assessing Fitzpatrick Skin Phototypes
The assessment relates closely to the amount of melanin pigmentation present, so skin types I and II are fair-skinned with the likelihood of blond or red hair and blue eyes. Skin types III-VI are medium skin tones and skin types V and VI are very dark skin tones.
Self-assessment skin typing is usually accurate in skin types III, IV and V. However skin type VI may be over-estimated when skin colour is assessed.
Skin types are different, with skin type I being 10% inherited, skin type II 20% inherited, skin type III 30%, skin type 40%, skin type V 50% and skin type VI 90% inherited.
What are the characteristics of each skin type?
Maybe you will not remember the type of the skin, but definitely, you identify yourself from one of the types below:
- I: Always burns, never tans (red or blond hair, blue eyes)
- II: Always burns, sometimes tans (red hair, blue/green eyes)
- III: Sometimes burns, always tans (brown hair, brown eyes)
- IV: Rarely burns, always tans (black hair, dark brown eyes)
- V: Very rarely burns, always tans (very dark brown skin, very dark brown eyes)
- VI: Never burns, always tans (black skin)
Using the picture and the assessment form above, what skin type are you?
Remember skin tones can vary greatly therefore it’s important to look at your skin in good lighting and assess the skin tone that is exposed to the sun. When in doubt, always consult a specialist!
What skin phototype is the Indian Asian skin?
Many of my Asian customers ask this question: ‘what skin tone is my skin?’
Indian skin tones can be skin prototype IV and V, skin phototype III would be considered fair-skinned. Every time I start working with a new customer, I do this assessment as well.
Know your skin type. It is important
Your skin phototype determines what type of skincare product you should be using as well as the method in which a product is used.
This is why knowing what your skin type is will help you use products more efficiently and how they are meant to be used!
If you are keen to find out your skin phototype as well as see your product application techniques I highly recommend taking the coaching sessions at Skin NV Clinics with myself, Dr. Natasha Verma, as I help you fully understand all of this information as well as you get useful tips on what products to use!
Is any connection between skin phototypes and skin cancer?
Yes, there is a connection, as the Fitzpatrick Skin Phototypes uses the scale as a screening tool for skin cancer as well as studying of what type of reaction your skin will have to UV exposure.
The skin cancer risk is generally higher as the light is closer to the ultraviolet spectrum. You have to be aware of the solar exposure, therefore, if you know you are suffering from frequent sunburn sensitivity, use sun protection with appropriate skincare products with a skin protection factor of at least 15. There is never enough protection to skin cancer risk.
Which skin type is more susceptible to skin diseases?
Skin types I and II are at increased risk of skin cancer. Skin type III is considered medium skin that falls between skin types I and VI. The skin types from IV to VI have a low risk of skin cancer as they have a high tolerance for sun exposure.
Skin Types and Sun Protection
The skin types and their phototypes provide a simple and effective guide for skin protection.
The skin diseases that are associated with skin phototypes are skin cancer, photoaging and melasma. The best way to protect yourself is to limit the sun exposure and use the right sun protection products.
protect yourself from skin cancer risk
The Fitzpatrick skin types are used to screen and to determine skin cancer risk.
If you have concerns about your skin conditions, I recommend you to book a consultation with me and discuss your and assess your needs. With a tailored service, I am able to recommend you the right skincare solutions, perfect for your skin colour.
What's next?
Book online for skin-care at home or in-clinic sessions to benefit of our NV Experience, wherever you at at home or in one of our Skin NV London locations.
As always,
Prioritise yourselves!
Someone Might Like This? Share It Now
*(Fitzpatrick scale image from suttonderm.com, Sunscreen photo – Unsplash)*
Need Help?
Consult With Us
We are here to listen and understand your concerns. A detailed consultation will allow for a thorough assessment of what we can do to help you.
