Fitzpatrick skin types
Also known as: Fitzpatrick skin type, Fitzpatrick scale, skin type 1-6
A dermatological classification of skin by its UV sensitivity and how it pigments. It determines which lasers and peels are safe for you.
Fitzpatrick skin types are a classification developed by dermatologist Thomas Fitzpatrick in 1975, dividing human skin into six types based on how it reacts to the sun. Estonian beauty salons and cosmetologists use this scale before laser, IPL and peeling treatments to choose the correct device intensity and avoid burns or pigmentation spots.
How does the Fitzpatrick skin type scale work?
The scale runs from I to VI: type I is very fair skin that always burns and never tans (pale, often with freckles), II burns often and tans with difficulty, III sometimes burns and tans evenly, IV rarely burns and tans easily, V is darker brown skin, and VI is very dark to black skin. Types I–III are the most common in the Estonian population.
The type is determined from eye colour, hair colour, the natural tone of sun-unexposed skin and how the skin reacts to sun. Fair types tolerate less laser energy but respond better to IPL; darker types need specialised lasers (Nd:YAG), because a standard laser can cause hyper- or hypopigmentation.
Fitzpatrick skin type in Estonia
Estonian cosmetologists and beauty salons assess a client's Fitzpatrick type before every laser hair removal, IPL treatment and chemical peel — device manufacturers require this too, for safety. The directory lists 22 laser hair removal providers and 44 chemical peel providers who use this classification routinely. The consultation is usually free or included in the price of the first treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Fitzpatrick skin type?
The Fitzpatrick skin type is a six-point classification (I–VI) that assesses how skin reacts to the sun. It is used in cosmetology and medicine to choose a safe intensity for laser, IPL or peeling devices.
Is Fitzpatrick skin typing safe in Estonia?
The assessment itself is visual and questionnaire-based — completely safe. What can become risky is the device intensity chosen based on an incorrect type, so always choose a trained cosmetologist or doctor.
Where can I learn more about the Fitzpatrick skin type?
Estonian beauty salons assess your Fitzpatrick type before every laser or peeling treatment. Ask for a consultation at a laser hair removal or cosmetology studio — it's free or included in the price of the service.
Related pages
This service in Estonia
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