March 20, 2024
Phototypes
When we talk about phototype, We refer to the skin's ability to assimilate solar radiation and that varies depending on its tone. These are classified into seven phototypes that are ordered from 0 to VI. This numerical classification for skin color was created in 1975 by Thomas B. Fitzpatrick, a dermatologist at Harvard University, and is used to describe the response of various skin types to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Later, this changed, thanks to the fact that in this classification they wanted to incorporate skin types other than white skin.
To generate these phototypes, four fundamental variables are taken into account:
- Hair color
- Dermis color
- Reaction to the sun
- Frequency of sunburn
- Type of tan (Taking into account the natural darkening of the skin due to sun exposure)
- Existence or not of freckles
- Skin alteration due to climate changes
Melanin plays an essential role, as it absorbs UV and infrared (IR) rays and captures free radicals , which explain much of the harmful effects of the sun. In addition, it is one of the key elements to take into account when you want to know what type of skin each person has. Within melanin there are two types:
- Femelanin , produced by people with dark skin and which serves to protect the skin from solar emissions.
- Eumelanin , characteristic of redheads, is ineffective and can even be toxic, as it produces more free radicals than it captures.
Once this clarification is made, we will move on to see the skin phototypes:
Phototype I : people with very light skin, they tend to have red hair, their skin usually burns easily and they have sun allergies. This type of skin has a hard time tanning.
Phototype II : white, sensitive skin. They are usually people with blonde hair and it is also difficult for them to tan. They usually have quite a few freckles. And it also burns easily.
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Phototype III : This is the most common phototype among Caucasians. People with brown hair, medium light skin. They have some freckles. Their skin first turns red and then acquires a discreet tan.
Phototype IV : This is an intermediate brown skin. It is not as sensitive to sun exposure. Get an intense tan. He does not usually have freckles.
Phototype V : people with dark skin whose tan is always very intense. They do not have freckles and do not burn easily.
Phototype VI : very dark skin, does not burn and does not present freckles. Phototype V : people with dark skin whose tan is always very intense. They do not have freckles and do not burn easily.
Taking this into account, It is important that regardless of skin type, anyone who is going to be exposed should protect themselves to avoid the immediate and subsequent harmful effects of the sun. To do this, remember to regularly use a sunscreen with a high protection factor, suitable for your skin type. Consult your dermatologist to find out which one is best for you.
Sources
Skin phototypes. General concepts
Phototypes
Skin phototypes and their characteristics
Carolina Cardona Valencia, Social Communicator.
For Satori Beauty
