What is Fitzpatrick Scale?

The Fitzpatrick scale classifies skin by how it responds to UV exposure. Type I: very fair, always burns, never tans. Type II: fair, burns easily, tans minimally. Type III: medium, sometimes burns, tans gradually. Type IV: olive/Mediterranean, rarely burns, tans well. Type V: brown, rarely burns, tans darkly. Type VI: very dark brown/black, never burns, always tans. Used by dermatologists for laser/chemical peel parameters, SPF recommendations, and procedure risk assessment. Darker Fitzpatrick types have higher PIH risk and need more cautious chemical/laser interventions.