In aesthetics, knowing your skin type helps you choose the appropriate laser therapies. Here is an overview of the six skin types in the Fitzpatrick comprehensive guidelines.
Characteristics: Pale white or ivory complexion, often burns easily
Sun sensitivity: High risk of sunburn, minimal tanning
Common features: Freckles, red or blonde hair, blue or green eyes
Ethnicity: Caucasian (English, Scottish)
All devices are safe for this skin type.
Characteristics: Fair skin with a light beige or peach undertone
Sun sensitivity: Moderate risk of sunburn, gradual tan
Common features: Light hair, blue or green eyes
Ethnicity: Caucasian (Northern European)
All devices are safe for this skin type.
Characteristics: Light to medium brown complexion
Sun sensitivity: Mild risk of sunburn, tan developing steadily
Common features: Darker hair, various eye colors
Ethnicity: Caucasian (German)
All devices are safe for this skin type.
Characteristics: Olive or light brown complexion
Sun sensitivity: Minimal risk of sunburn, moderate tanning
Common features: Dark hair, brown eyes
Ethnicity: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Hispanic backgrounds, and mixed races
Nd:YAG, Alexandrite, Diode, Nonablative, Fractional CO2, Q-switch/Pico, thulium, RF Microneedling, Cold Fiber Lasers, Ultrasound Technology, Radio Frequency Skin Tightening, and Erbium are safe for this skin type.
Characteristics: Dark brown complexion
Sun sensitivity: Rarely sunburns, significant tanning
Common features: Dark hair, brown eyes
Ethnicity: African American, Indians, and Middle Eastern
Nd:YAG, RF microneedling,Cold Fiber Lasers, Ultrasound Technology, Radio Frequency Skin Tightening, and Q-switch/Pico are safe for this skin type.
Characteristics: Deeply pigmented black or dark brown complexion
Sun sensitivity: Almost sunburns, intense tanning
Common features: Dark hair, brown eyes
Ethnicity: African American and Middle Eastern
Nd:YAG, RF microneedling,Cold Fiber Lasers, Ultrasound Technology, Radio Frequency Skin Tightening, and Q-switch/Pico are safe for this skin type.
