What Fitzpatrick Skin Type Am I?

The Fitzpatrick skin type scale was developed in 1975 and is still used today as a simple way to classify different skin tones. As Aesthetic Practitioners, we find the Fitzpatrick skin type scale very important, as the classification will determine which treatments are suitable for each client.

The scale classifies skin into 6 types based on skin tone, sun damage, and how the skin responds to the sun.

Skin Type 1: Ivory skin tones, always freckles, always burns, never tans.

E.g.: Celtic fair skin

Skin Type 2: Lower skin tone, usually freckles, often burns, rarely tans.

E.g., Northern European skin

Skin Type 3: Fair skin tones with golden undertone, sometimes burns, sometimes tans.

E:g: Southern European skin

Skin Type 4: Olive- lower skin tones, tans, rarely burns.

E.g.: Middle Eastern, fairer Asian skin

Skin Type 5: Deep skin tones, always tans, never burns.

E.g.: Deeper Asian skin

Skin Type 6: Deeper skin tones, always tans, never burns.

E.g.: Afro-Caribbean skin

Why is Fitzpatrick Important?

The Fitzpatrick scale must be used to enable us to treat clients’ skin safely and avoid negative responses such as hyperpigmentation or burns.

Skin Type 1 has the least amount of melanin (pigment); it will heat up the least, so higher energies can be used.

Skin Types 4-6 have much more melanin (pigment), so should be treated with caution, or not at all, with certain IPL and laser treatments.

At Fiji Skin Clinic, we offer peels and have a laser suitable for treating all Fitzpatrick skin types, from 1 to 6.  All our skin supplements and skin care products are also suitable for all skin tones.

We can safely treat all skin tones, whether with skin treatments or skin care products. Depending on a person’s skin tone and skin concern will determine which treatment protocol we recommend.

Obagi Medical was developed for skin of colour 25 years ago and has all the clinical white papers to support their findings and results. We are Award-Winning Obagi Ambassadors with extensive training and experience treating all skin tones, including sensitive skin. Visit our social media to see our client before-and-after photos, and visit our extensive Google Reviews. 

Ready to Take Back Control of Your Skin?

At Fiji Skin Clinic, we specialise in helping clients undo the visible effects of past sun damage, dehydration, and collagen loss. From laser rejuvenation to targeted pigmentation treatments, we offer expert-led solutions for real skin concerns.

Whether you’re starting fresh or continuing your journey, we’re here to help.

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