What does the Fitzpatrick scale measure?

The Fitzpatrick scale is specifically designed to classify a person's skin type based on its response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It measures how susceptible the skin is to sunburn, as well as how it tans or burns when exposed to sunlight. The scale categorizes skin types into six different categories, ranging from very fair skin that burns easily to very dark skin that rarely burns. This classification is particularly useful in dermatology and cosmetic fields for assessing the risk of skin damage and for making informed decisions about sun protection and treatments. Understanding how skin responds to UV exposure is critical for recommending appropriate sun safety measures to an individual.