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No, we aren’t trying to flirt with you! We are trying to discuss your skin type because it offers valuable information about how to handle skin care issues and making a regimen that is right for you.
The Fitzpatrick Scale offers 6 different categories for skin. These incorporate factors like skin color, ethnic make up, and likelihood to get sunburn.
The scale is as follows:
“The Fitzpatrick scale is able to give you a good understanding of where to start when it comes to skin care and skin treatments,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, a board certified Dermatologist in Austin, Texas. Knowing your skin type is beneficial when planning laser procedures, using certain skin care products, and also for your health in the sun. “By knowing where you fit on the Fitzpactrick scale, you are able to more fully understand your skin’s pattern of interaction with the sun,” states Dr. Hanson. This allows you to have expectation for protection from the sun, and your frequency or likelihood of burning.
This information is also helpful when determining what issues, like skin cancer, you are more or less likely to be prone to. “Specific skin types tend to have more of a tendency to be sensitive to the sun, causing the skin to have a heightened reaction to UVA and UVB rays,” notes Dr. Adam Mamelak, a board certified Dermatologist and Mohs Micrographic Surgeon. “The genetic predispositions for cancer and illness are something to be seriously considered before you walk outside without using sunscreen, or stepping into a tanning booth,” Dr. Mamelak adds. The importance of knowing your skin type varies, but it is always good to have as much information as you can to make informed decisions about your daily routines and health.
So, which skin type are you?