When it comes to your skin, knowledge is power – especially during Skin Cancer Awareness Month. At Dermoperfection, one of the first steps we take when creating your personalised treatment plan is identifying your Fitzpatrick skin type. But what exactly is this, and why does it matter?

The Fitzpatrick scale is a classification system that identifies how your skin reacts to ultraviolet (UV) light – including how easily you burn or tan. This not only helps assess your risk of sun damage and skin cancer, but also guides us in recommending the most effective and safest treatments and skincare products for your skin.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type I – Very Fair Skin

If you have very pale or porcelain skin that always burns and never tans, you’re likely a Type I. This skin type often has light blue or green eyes and red or blonde hair.

Key characteristics: Highly sensitive to the sun, prone to redness and irritation, needs strong sun protection year-round.
Risks: Higher risk of sunburn and skin cancer due to very low melanin levels.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type II – Fair Skin

Type II skin is still fair, but may tan very lightly. However, it burns easily, and sun exposure should still be approached with caution. You might have light eyes and blonde or light brown hair.

Key characteristics: Some tanning, but often accompanied by sunburn; requires high-SPF skincare and daily sun protection.
Risks: Still at significant risk for sun damage and premature ageing.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type III – Medium Skin

People with Type III skin sometimes burn, but tan gradually to a light brown. This skin type often has a neutral undertone and is common in those of Southern European descent.

Key characteristics: More tolerant to sun exposure, but not immune to sun damage.
Risks: Can develop hyperpigmentation or sunspots with unprotected exposure.

Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV – Olive or Light Brown Skin

Type IV skin rarely burns and tans easily. It has a natural resistance to the sun but still needs protection to avoid long-term damage.

Key characteristics: Warm undertones, may be prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation (especially after breakouts or treatments).
Risks: May not notice sun damage until it becomes more visible (e.g., pigmentation, uneven tone).

Fitzpatrick Skin Type V – Brown Skin

This skin type very rarely burns and tans deeply. Type V skin has more melanin, offering some natural protection from the sun.

Key characteristics: Prone to pigmentation changes, especially with inflammation or incorrect product use.
Risks: While less likely to burn, still at risk of skin cancer – often in areas not typically exposed to the sun (e.g., soles of the feet, under nails).

Fitzpatrick Skin Type VI – Dark Brown to Black Skin

Type VI skin never burns and is deeply pigmented. While it has the highest natural protection from the sun, it’s still essential to care for this skin type thoughtfully.

Key characteristics: Rich melanin content, very prone to hyperpigmentation and keloid scarring if not treated appropriately.
Risks: Skin cancer can still occur, often going undetected until later stages.

How Dermoperfection Can Help You Care for Your Skin Type

At Dermoperfection, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all skincare. Your Fitzpatrick type helps us choose:

The most effective treatments for your skin (like microneedling, chemical peels, laser therapy, or injectables – all tailored safely to your skin type)
The best medical-grade products from trusted ranges like Obagi Medical or SkinCeuticals that address your unique concerns – from pigmentation to sensitivity to ageing
Preventative steps during Skin Cancer Awareness Month and beyond – including SPF education, regular skin checks, and product recommendations that truly protect.

Book a Consultation

Whether you know your Fitzpatrick type or not, our medical experts can assess your skin in-clinic and create a bespoke plan that supports long-term skin health. Book a consultation at our award-winning clinic today!