How to Determine a Fitzpatrick Skin Type

The Fitzpatrick Skin Type Test was first developed by a Harvard doctor in 1975. It's often used to gauge equipment settings before laser hair removal. The test is based on a person's complexion and response of a person's skin to sun exposure. Follow these steps to determine a Fitzpatrick Skin Type.

Instructions

1. Know that there are six Fitzpatrick skin types. They range from Type I, which is extremely fair skin, to Type 6, which is very dark skin.

2. Go to an online website about Fitzpatrick Skin Types or visit a laser hair removal practitioner in order to complete a questionnaire to determine your Fitzpatrick Skin Type. Print out the online questionnaire and complete it before going to a laser hair removal appointment. Bring the questionnaire with you to the appointment so you can discuss it with the practitioner.

3. Note that the Fitzpatrick Skin Type questionnaire is based on three areas: genetic disposition, which includes skin, hair and eye color, reaction to sun exposure, such as whether you tan, burn or blister and your tanning habits. These three areas need to be included because everyone contains different amounts of melanin in their skin irregardless of whether they're fair or dark complected. Melanin is the pigment that causes us to tan when exposed to the sun.

4. Consult your laser hair removal practitioner before scheduling an appointment. You need to avoid several beauty practices or products for several weeks before a treatment, such as tanning, self-tanners, plucking, waxing or bleaching.

5. Use your Fitzpatrick Skin Type when choosing makeup shades. As makeup shades increase, more accurate skin typing is needed when choosing makeup.