How to Use the Fitzpatrick Scale for Skin Analysis with Beauty or Spa Clients

Developed in 1975 by Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick, MD, Ph.D, a dermatologist  of the Harvard Medical School,  the scale is a standard classification of a person’s complexion based on tolerance to sunlight.  Also used to judge reactions and response to facial treatments,   Dr. Fitzpatrick had a strong interest in pigmentation and did pioneering work in treatments of many skin ailments. Through use of the Fitzpatrick Classification Scale an esthetician can determine whether or not a patient is suited for various professional treatments.

The Fitzpatrick Scale allows classification of skin types.  It uses as a guide the skin’s reaction to 10 to 45 minutes of sun exposure after the winter.  It is really easy to understand:

• Type 1 always burns easily and never tans
• Type 2 always burns easily and tans minimally
• Type 3 Burns moderately and tans gradually
• Type 4 burns minimally and always tans well
• Type 5 Rarely burns and tans profusely
• Type 6 never burns, and indicates deeply pigmented skin

The benefits of both microdermabrasion and chemical peels are well known.   Regeneration of the skin occurs after the top layer is removed, allowing the removal of wrinkles of various sizes, scars left from acne and stained skin.  Cell renewal also results in an increase in collagen and the elasticity of the skin. Using the Fitzpatrick scale before treatment will give an aesthetician an excellent idea of the tolerance and sensitivity level of a clients skin.

In fact, through an analysis of the skin an aesthetician can determine if a client is a good candidate for microdermabrasion or chemical peel treatment.  As the name implies, microdermabrasion  is abrasive, and is actually removing the outer layer of skin.  Professionals have discovered that the complexion types outlined in the Fitzpatrick Classification Scale  help in determining the toughness or sensitivity of skin to other factors, such as chemicals or abrasion.  While microdermabrasion uses crystals to remove the extremely fine layer of skin, and is not only a comfortable treatment for most people but actually considered enjoyable, it is still the professional duty of the aesthetician to ensure that the client will not have ill effects.  The same is true of chemical peels.

Most people have no ill effects, and many find the experience enjoyable.  However, skin that is too sensitive, such as the Fitzpatrick Classification  Scale Type 1, might not be good candidates for either treatment.

If you want to learn more about advance skin care, you might find my book “Ensuring An Optimal Outcome in Skin Care” interesting and educational.