What is Fitzpatrick scale? (Camouflage)

The Fitzpatrick scale is a numerical classification schema for human skin color. It was developed in 1975 by Thomas B. Fitzpatrick, a Harvard dermatologist, as a way to estimate the response of different types of skin to ultraviolet (UV) light. It categorizes skin type based on various factors, including genetic disposition, reaction to sun exposure, and tanning habits.

The scale ranges from Type I to Type VI. Also The scale itself is based on the skin's reaction to the first 10-45 minutes of sun exposure after the winter period—not previously tanned or exposed skin—which is reflective of the skin's true sensitivity to UV light:

1. **Type I (Socres 0-6) - Always burns, never tans (Pale White)**
   - Risk of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer is highest in this group.
   - Highly susceptible to DNA damage from UV exposure.
   - Typically has a lot of freckles and may have a red or very blonde hair color.
   - High risk of damage from UV exposure.
   - Recommended to always use high SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure as much as possible.

2. **Type II (Socres 7-13) - Usually burns, tans minimally (White)**
   - Similar to Type I, this group also has a high risk of skin cancer.
   - An individual with such skin might have light-colored eyes and their natural hair color can range from blonde to brown.
   - Sunscreen with a high SPF is strongly recommended, along with protective measures.

3. **Type III (Socres 14-20) - Sometimes burns, tans uniformly (Cream White; Fair with any eye or hair color)**
   - This skin type is quite common.
   - There is still a risk of skin cancer, but it is lower compared to Types I and II.
   - Generally, they have a fair skin tone with a wider range of hair and eye colors.
   - These individuals should regularly use sunscreen with SPF 15 or above and practice sun safety.

4. **Type IV (Socres 21-27) - Burns minimally, always tans well (Moderate Brown)**
   - This type commonly includes individuals of Mediterranean, Hispanic, and some Asian descent.
   - The skin contains more melanin than Types I to III, which provides some protection against UV radiation and skin damage.
   - However, there is still a risk of skin cancer and anti-aging effects from the sun, so protective measures are still important.

5. **Type V (Socres 28-34) - Very rarely burns, tans very easily (Dark Brown)**
   - Commonly associated with people of Middle Eastern, Latino, Indian, and some lighter-skinned African American backgrounds.
   - Although the skin is more protected due to higher melanin content, there is still a risk of skin cancer and signs of aging from UV exposure.
   - The use of sunscreen and sun-protective measures is advised to prevent damage.

6. **Type VI (Socres 35-36) - Never burns, deeply pigmented (Very Dark Brown to Black)**
   - Typically, this type includes individuals of sub-Saharan African descent and has the highest melanin content.
   - While it's less prone to sunburn, there's still a possibility of skin cancer, and there can be challenges with the diagnosis due to the pigment's ability to mask lesions or changes.
   - Recommending sunscreen is not just about preventing burns but also about overall skin health, including reducing the possibility of melanomas.

The Fitzpatrick scale is particularly useful for medical use, especially concerning the risks of sun exposure and guidelines for phototherapy or laser treatments. Recognizing your Fitzpatrick skin type can help you to take care of your skin appropriately, tailoring sunscreen use, skincare treatments, and recognizing early signs of skin damage more effectively. It's also a factor considered when utilizing certain topical treatments or medication that might make the skin more photosensitive.