Question 1

What is the Fitzpatrick skin type scale?

Accepted Answer

The Fitzpatrick scale is a validated six-point classification (Type I to Type VI) of how human skin responds to ultraviolet light, from always-burns/never-tans through to deeply-pigmented/never-burns. It estimates erythemal sensitivity — how quickly UV exposure produces redness.

Question 2

How is the Fitzpatrick skin type scored?

Accepted Answer

A 10-item self-report questionnaire covering genetic disposition, reaction to sun exposure, and recent tanning habits. Each answer scores 0–4, summing to 0–40. The total maps to a Fitzpatrick type: 0–7 = I, 8–16 = II, 17–25 = III, 26–30 = IV, 31–40 = V–VI.

Question 3

Is a Fitzpatrick self-assessment a medical diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

No. It is a validated self-report estimate of erythemal sensitivity, not a clinical assessment and not a measure of performance. It correlates with — but does not perfectly reproduce — clinician-assessed type or objective measures such as minimal erythemal dose and skin reflectance.

What's your Fitzpatrick skin type?

What is the colour of your eyes?