Fitzpatrick’s skin type I through VI
Friday, September 30th, 2005Analysis of skin type of each patient is necessary to determine the methodology that would be effective on that particular client and also would be safe on his skin. Human skin is classified into several skin types based on its reaction towards exposure to sun, susceptibility towards tanning and phenotype. Usually the skin is classified based on attributes like skin color and MED (minimal erythema dose). During laser treatment heat energy is passed towards skin surface and hence the ability of human skin to dissipate heat is very important factor influencing the effectiveness and safety for the epidermal cells. Fitzpatrick gave a popular classification of skin types based on which medical practitioners determined the laser technique that would be best for that particular patient.
| Fitzpatrick Classification of Skin Types | |
| Skin Type | Characteristic |
| I | Always burns, never tans |
| II | Always burns, sometimes tans |
| III | Sometimes burns, always tans |
| IV | Rarely burns, always tans |
| V | Moderately pigmented |
| VI | Black skin |
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