What is the Fitzpatrick scale?

The Fitzpatrick scale is a scientific way of classifying skin tones (also known as phototypes). It’s widely used amongst skin experts to help identify the most effective and safe skincare products and treatments for their patients. For the same reason, it’s helpful for you to understand where you sit on the Fitzpatrick scale so that you can find skincare and cosmetic products that best suit you.

Who created the Fitzpatrick scale, and why?

The scale was created by Thomas Fitzpatrick in 1975 to help to establish safe parameters for UV treatment of psoriasis depending on the patient’s skin tone. It is based on hair and eye colour, as well as how the skin reacts when exposed to sunlight.

It’s important to understand that while this scale does take into account how easily the skin burns, it does not provide a sliding scale of risk to cancer. Everyone, regardless of skin type, is at risk of sun damage that can lead to skin cancer and should use high-level, broad-spectrum sun protection daily to provide adequate protection against UVA and UVB rays.

The scale does however help us to understand how different skin types behave and can give a broad framework to work to in establishing whether a particular skincare product or treatment is suitable. While the simplistic nature of the scale can be limiting in terms of specific guidance, it does mean that everybody can very easily identify for themselves where they sit on the scale and make choices accordingly.

How can I tell where I sit on the scale?

The Fitzpatrick scale is from 1-6 but is usually displayed in Roman numerals (I-VI). Visually, you will be able to get an idea of roughly where you sit on the scale depending on your skin tone. To pinpoint your exact Fitzpatrick skin type there are some key factors for you to consider.

Fitzpatrick skin type I

Those with Fitzpatrick skin type I have fair skin that always burns with unprotected sun exposure and never tans. They will usually have:

• Fair, freckly skin (white skin)
• Blue or green eyes
• Blonde or red hair

Fitzpatrick skin type II

People with type II skin burn easily in the sun and barely tan. Characteristics typically include:

• Fair skin with minimal pigment (white skin)
• Blue eyes

Fitzpatrick skin type III

Those with type III skin will tan but usually after burning initially. Characteristics typically include:

• Lightly pigmented skin (olive-toned skin)
• Brown eyes
• Brown hair

Fitzpatrick skin type IV

If you have type IV skin, you will typically tan easily and only experience minimal sunburn. In addition, a Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV will typically have:

• Medium pigmented skin (brown skin)
• Brown eyes
• Brown or black hair

Fitzpatrick skin type V

Those with skin type V rarely burn and in terms of tanning, their skin darkens considerably. They usually also have:

• Dark pigmented skin (dark brown skin)
• Brown eyes
• Brown or black hair

Fitzpatrick skin type VI

Those with skin type VI never burn and their skin is least affected by UV exposure. Typical characteristics include:

• Deeply pigmented skin (very dark brown to black skin)
• Brown eyes
• Dark brown or black hair

Choosing the right Heliocare 360° product for me

Dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic, our daily sunscreen range has been specifically formulated for everyday use.

Heliocare 360° sunscreens provide high-level, full-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared-A and contain additional skin-loving ingredients – including the supercharged antioxidant Fernblock® - going beyond sunscreen to protect skin from free radical damage caused by daylight and boost overall skin health.

With products suitable for all skin types, in various coverage levels and finishes, as well as formulations designed to help prevent and reduce the signs and symptoms of key skin concerns, there’s a product for everyone, for every day.

Knowing your Fitzpatrick skin type will help you to establish which Heliocare 360° products best suit you and your skin. Explore the Heliocare range now.