Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Fitzpatrick scale
Introduction
The Fitzpatrick Scale (aka Fitzpatrick skin typing test or Fitzpatrick phototyping scale) is a numerical classification schema for the color of skin. It was developed in 1975 by T.B. Fitzpatrick, a Harvard dermatologist, as a way to classify the response of different types of skin to UV light. It remains a recognized tool for dermatologic research into skin of color.
It measures several components: Genetic Disposition, Reaction to Sun Exposure and Tanning Habits
The Fitzpatrick Scale:
- Type 1 (scores 0-7) White/Subject to sunburn
- Type 2 (scores 8-16) Tan/Capable of tanning
- Type 3 (scores 17-25) Dark/Capable of tanning
- Type 4 (scores 25-30) Dark
- Type 5-6 (scores over 30) Very dark
References
- Fitzpatrick TB: Soleil et peau. J Med Esthet 1975;2:33034.