Skin is grouped into six different types based on the degree of pigmentation. Type One skin is the lightest and Type Six the darkest. Skin cancer is a risk no matter your skin type, so it's important to always use sunscreen if you're spending time outdoors. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 that offers protection against UVA and UVB radiation. If you have sensitive skin, be wary of added ingredients, such as fragrances and dyes, which could irritate your skin.
Type One
People with Type One skin are very light-colored, always burn in the sun and never tan. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports this group of people is at very high risk for melanoma, which is the deadliest type of skin cancer. Type One people also are described as "extremely susceptible" to skin damage, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. If you have Type One skin, use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and clothing rated UPF 30 or higher. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is the ratings system used for sun-protective clothing. Seek shade whenever possible.
Type Two
If you have Type Two skin, you usually burn, and it's rare that you tan in the sun. Seeking out shade is a good idea for you, too. The Skin Cancer Foundation puts your risk of melanoma at "high" and notes you also are "highly susceptible" to skin damage and the skin cancers basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It recommends an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher.
Type Three
Type Three people have a little more natural skin color and may burn or tan in the sun. The Skin Cancer Foundation describes Type Three individuals as "at risk" for melanoma and "susceptible" to other skin cancers. If you have this skin type, be sure to use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and wear clothing that offers sun protection. If you're out during the sun's strongest hours, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., it's a good idea to look for some shade.
Type Four
Type Four people are the ones who tan easily and rarely burn, but they are still at risk of suffering skin damage and developing skin cancer. If you have Type Four skin, the Skin Cancer Foundation suggests you go easy on the sunshine during the hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and lather up with a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 15.
Type Five
Darker-skinned people with Type Five skin can tan easily and don't have to worry much at all about burning. However, the Skin Cancer Foundation notes that people in this group may be more likely to suffer a type of skin cancer called acral lentiginous melanoma. These melanomas often are not found until the cancer has spread, and they often appear on parts of the body that get little sun exposure. It's a good idea for people with Type Five skin to avoid the sun during the strongest hours of the day and to remember to use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or more.
Type Six
People with Type Six skin don't have to worry about burning, but they should remember to slather on some sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more. The Skin Cancer Foundation warns that acral lentiginous melanoma is a very virulent form of melanoma and is more common among people with darker skin. Look for some shade if you're out during the sun's strongest hours and remember to use a SPF 15 or higher sunscreen.
