Fitzpatrick Scale

The Fitzpatrick scale is a six-level skin classification developed in 1975 by Harvard dermatologist Thomas Fitzpatrick to standardize skin's response to UV exposure. Level I is the palest (always burns, never tans — typical of red hair, freckles, very fair Northern European skin). Level II burns easily, tans minimally. Level III burns moderately, tans gradually (the most common type in the US). Level IV burns minimally, tans well (Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, light Latino). Level V rarely burns, tans deeply (South Asian, darker Middle Eastern, darker Latino). Level VI never burns, deeply pigmented (most African and African diaspora skin). Spray tan artists use the Fitzpatrick scale to choose solution depth: Type I clients suit a 6–8% DHA light solution to avoid an unnatural orange result; Type IV–V clients can wear 12%+ for deep dark glow without looking artificial. Bronzly's per-client CRM stores Fitzpatrick type alongside solution preference so the artist makes consistent depth choices without re-asking.