The Fitzpatrick skin type is a classification system designed by Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick of Harvard University in 1975. A person's Fitzpatrick skin type is determined primarily by the skin's reaction to the sun and secondarily by the person's genetic background and natural skin color. It is used to predict the possibility of adverse effects following any type of treatment. For example, people with higher skin types have an increased risk for developing dark discoloration after procedures such as chemical peels and laser resurfacing. These risks can be minimized by pre-treatment and post-treatment with brightening agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, azeleic acid, arbutin, and licorice extract. The classification system is shown below on a scale of I to VI with type I being the fairest and always burning but never tanning after sun exposure and type VI being the darkest and never burning but always tanning after sun expoure. Patients with lighter skin types tend to have blonde or red hair and blue or green eyes, and often have many freckles. Patients with darker skin types tend to have black hair and dark brown eyes.
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