Fitzpatrick Skin Type Calculator
Classify your skin type (I–VI) based on genetic disposition and sun reaction to determine UV sensitivity, burn risk, and SPF recommendations.
Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of results from this tool.
Inputs
Results
Fitzpatrick Skin Type
3
How to Use This Calculator
- Answer each of the five questions about Genetic Disposition, Reaction to Sun Exposure, Tanning Ability, Freckling Tendency, and Unexposed Skin Color.
- The calculator scores your responses and assigns a Fitzpatrick Skin Type (I-VI).
- Review Burn Risk Level and Recommended SPF for your skin type.
- Note the Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) estimate and Unprotected Burn Time for sun planning.
- Use this classification when consulting for phototherapy dosing or laser treatment parameters.
What each input means
- Genetic Disposition
- Eye/hair/skin color score: 0 = very fair (blue eyes, red hair), 4 = dark (brown eyes, black hair).
- Reaction to Sun Exposure
- 0 = always burns severely, 1 = usually burns, 2 = sometimes burns, 3 = rarely burns, 4 = never burns.
- Tanning Ability
- 0 = never tans, 1 = minimal tan, 2 = gradual tan, 3 = tans easily, 4 = always deeply tans.
- Freckling Tendency
- 0 = many freckles, 1 = several, 2 = few, 3 = very few, 4 = none.
- Unexposed Skin Color
- 0 = very pale/white, 1 = fair, 2 = medium, 3 = olive/brown, 4 = dark brown/black.
What each result means
- Fitzpatrick Skin Type
- Skin type I (most sensitive) to VI (least sensitive).
- Total Score
- Sum of all responses (0–20).
- Burn Risk Level
- 1 (low) to 5 (very high).
- Recommended SPF
- Minimum SPF recommendation for daily use.
- MED Estimate
- Minimal erythema dose — UV energy to cause redness.
- Unprotected Burn Time
- Approximate minutes to sunburn at UV index 6 without protection.
How this is calculated
Worked example, using the default values
- Identify Input Parameters4 parametersGenetic Disposition = 2, Reaction to Sun Exposure = 2, Tanning Ability = 2, Freckling Tendency = 1 = 5 input(s) provided
- Calculate Fitzpatrick Skin Type3 = 3
- Calculate Total ScoreTotal Score9 = 9
- Calculate Burn Risk Level3 = 3
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