Understanding Fitzpatrick Skin Types and the Importance of Sunscreen for All Skin Tones

By Dr Gos Gopalakrishnan

We all know that sunscreen is crucial for protecting our skin from harmful UV rays, but did you know that it’s just as important for people with darker skin? Let’s dive into the Fitzpatrick skin types and why everyone, regardless of skin tone, should wear sunscreen.

The Fitzpatrick skin type

The Fitzpatrick skin type classification system, developed by dermatologist Thomas B. Fitzpatrick in 1975, categorizes skin based on its response to UV exposure. There are six skin types:

1. Type I: Very fair skin, always burns, never tans
2. Type II: Fair skin, burns easily, tans minimally
3. Type III: Medium skin, sometimes burns, tans uniformly
4. Type IV: Olive skin, rarely burns, tans easily
5. Type V: Brown skin, very rarely burns, tans very easily
6. Type VI: Very dark brown or black skin, never burns, tans very easily

People with darker skin (types IV to VI) often believe they’re naturally protected from the sun. While it’s true that higher melanin levels provide some protection against UV rays, it doesn’t make them immune to sun damage.

Here’s why everyone needs sunscreen:

1. Protection Against UV Radiation: Melanin does offer some UV protection and skin cancer prevention, but it’s not enough to prevent all types of sun damage. UV rays can penetrate deeper layers of the skin, causing DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer. Yes, skin cancer is less common in people with darker skin, but when it does occur, it’s often diagnosed at a more advanced stage and can be more dangerous.
2. Prevention of Hyperpigmentation: Darker skin is more prone to hyperpigmentation, where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding area. UV exposure can exacerbate conditions like melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leading to uneven skin tone and dark spots.
3. Anti-Ageing Benefits: Sun exposure accelerates the ageing process for all skin types. UV rays cause skin damage, breaking down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin. Using sunscreen helps maintain a youthful appearance by protecting against these effects, maintaining your skin health.
4. Overall Skin Health: Sunscreen isn’t just about preventing cancer and ageing; it’s about maintaining healthy skin. Consistent use of sunscreen reduces the risk of sunburn, irritation, and other sun-related skin issues.

Myth-Busting

It’s a myth that people with darker skin don’t need sunscreen. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, can benefit from daily sunscreen use. The key is to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

 

Applying Sunscreen Correctly

Make sure to apply sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed skin. Don’t forget often-missed areas like the ears, neck, and tops of feet. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.

Sunscreen is essential for everyone, no matter their Fitzpatrick skin type. Protecting your skin from UV damage is crucial for preventing skin cancer, reducing hyperpigmentation, and maintaining youthful, healthy skin. So, whether you have the fairest skin or the darkest, make sunscreen a daily habit. Your skin will thank you!

Book Your Skin Check

Feel free to reach out to us at the WA Skin Cancer Centre for more information, to schedule a skin check, or if you have any questions about skin cancer prevention and treatment. Your skin’s health is worth every effort.

Book your skin check with us today!

About the Author

Dr Gos Gopalakrishnan

BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP 

Dr Gos is a dedicated and dynamic medical leader and educator with a deep passion for skin cancer care. Based in Perth, he specialises in skin cancer management, ensuring comprehensive care for his patients. Alongside his clinical work, Dr Gos serves on an Expert Examiner Panel at Curtin Medical School, and is the Clinical Director of Radiant Doctors, an initiative established to provide sustainable primary care services and address the shortage of GPs in regional areas.