top of page
Rectangle 1.png
Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center

Fitzpatrick Skin Type Survey

HOME  /  Fitzpatrick Scale Blog

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center
Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center

For all skin types, artificial tanning devices and beds can be dangerous. According to a 2013 study, there is a 75% increased risk of melanoma in persons who use an artificial tanning bed before the age of 35.

​

Experts advise against using artificial tanning beds for any reason, regardless of skin type.

​

​It is essential to understand your Fitzpatrick skin type or phototype as it helps you to identify the level of protection needed from the sun and understand your risk of developing skin cancer. This information is invaluable when it comes to protecting your Fitzpatrick skin phototype from the sun’s harmful rays.

Is Skin Cancer Risk Greater Depending On My Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype?

Unfortunately yes, skin cancer risk is greater depending on your Fitzpatrick skin phototype, which is determined by your natural skin color and reaction to sun exposure. People with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes I and II have the greatest risk to develop skin cancer, while people with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes V and VI have the lowest risk. Melanin in the skin absorbs and scatters energy from UV light to protect skin cells from damage.

​

Fitzpatrick skin phototypes III through V have a moderate risk of developing skin cancer. It is important to note that the Fitzpatrick skin phototype does not determine the level of protection from sunburns, which can still occur even in those with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes V and VI. In general, types I and II are the most sun-reactive skin types while individuals with very dark skin tones generally can expect to have a lesser risk of 
skin cancers.

Are Fitzpatrick Skin Phototypes Scientifically Valid?

There is some scientific basis to the Fitzpatrick skin phototypes. The theory is that people with different Fitzpatrick skin phototypes have different responses to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun. Individuals with Fitzpatrick skin phototype I are thought to be very sensitive to sunlight and are at an increased risk for burning, while those with Fitzpatrick skin phototype VI are thought to be very resistant to burning and have a 
natural tan.

​

However, there is a lot of individual variability within each Fitzpatrick skin phototype, so it’s not possible to say that all individuals with a certain Fitzpatrick skin phototype will have the same response to UVR. Additionally, many other factors besides UV exposure can affect someone’s risk of developing skin cancer, such as genetics and lifestyle factors. Therefore, Fitzpatrick skin phototypes should only be used as a general guide when evaluating your risk of sunburn and skin cancer.

​

It is important to remember that the Fitzpatrick scale is just one tool for assessing your risk for skin cancer and it is important to talk to your doctor about your individual risk. Your doctor may recommend other methods for assessing your skin cancer risks, such as a physical examination or a family history evaluation. Additionally, it is important to practice safe sun practices and use proper protection when spending time outdoors – no matter what Fitzpatrick skin phototype you have!

​

With the right information, Fitzpatrick skin phototypes can be a helpful tool to understand your individual risk of skin cancer. Knowing your Fitzpatrick skin phototype can help you make informed decisions and take the necessary steps to protect your skin from UV rays. If you have any concerns about your Fitzpatrick skin phototype or are worried that you may be at risk for developing skin cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor.

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center
TAKE THIS QUIZ

What Is Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type?

Instructions: Each answer has a numerical value next to it. Choose one answer to each question and add up the numbers associated with your responses. Scoring is available at the end of the quiz.

What color are your eyes?
What is the natural color of your hair?
What color is your skin (unexposed areas)?
Do you have freckles on unexposed areas?
What happens when you stay too long in the sun?
To what degree do you turn brown?
Do you turn brown with several hours of sun exposure?
How does your face react to the sun?
When did you last expose your body to the sun (or artificial sunlamp/ tanning cream)?
Do you expose your face to the sun? (for the purpose of this quiz we have changed this question from the original: Did you expose the area to be treated to the sun?)

TOTAL POINTS:

0

Total up your points and match your score below to find your skin type.

Fitzpatrick Scale Quiz Score

0-7

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center

Type I

8-16

Line 3.Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Centerpng

Type II

17-25

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center

Type III

25-30

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center

Type IV

Over 30

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center

Type V-VI

Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center
Learn about Fitzpatrick Scale at The Jet plasma Center
WHAT’S YOUR THOUGHTS?

Final Thoughts About Fitzpatrick Skin Types

Fitzpatrick skin types are often utilized to identify the the risk of skin cancer caused by UV radiation exposure. However, a number of other variables, including geography and family history, also increase the chance of developing skin cancer. The Fitzpatrick scale remains a recognized tool for dermatological research into human skin pigmentation. The validity and reliability of this well-known scale are widely accepted and it has been applied in many research studies.

​

The scale has limits, particularly for People of Color who do not cleanly fall into one of the six kinds. Due to the limits of medical practitioners who rely on the Fitzpatrick scale, there is less knowledge about the risk of skin cancer in People of Color, which may lead to a later diagnosis of skin cancer.

​

The scale has limits, particularly for People of Color who do not cleanly fall into one of the six kinds. Due to the limits of medical practitioners who rely on the Fitzpatrick scale, there is less knowledge about the risk of skin cancer in People of Color, which may lead to a later diagnosis of skin cancer.

​

Our Anti Aging Skin Care Treatments Are Suitable For All Fitzpatrick Skin TypesCall 302-470-0835 or Contact Us Now To Schedule A Consultation

BE INFORM

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the skin cancer foundation offer a skin cancer risk assessment?

Yes, the Skin Cancer Foundation does offer a skin cancer risk assessment. You can take the quiz on their website to see if you are at risk for developing skin cancer. They also have a number of resources available to help you stay safe in the sun and protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.

What is the best way for measuring skin cancer risk?

There is no one “best” way for measuring skin cancer risk. However, the most commonly used methods include a skin examination by a doctor, an assessment of your family history of skin cancer, and an assessment of your personal history of skin cancer.

​

Other factors that may also be considered regarding the risk of skin cancer include the number of moles on a person’s body, the size and color of moles, and whether a person has had sunburns in the past.

bottom of page