Fitzpatrick Skin Phototypes | by Dr . Alpesh Desai
Everyone , regardless of skin type , should practice sun protection strategies routinely and have regular skin exams with a Dermatologist
The best candidates for deep lasers and chemical peels ( Contour TRL , CO2 , and medium- or deep-depth peels like Phenol and TCA ) are the lighter skin types I , II , and III , which have a lesser chance of complications such as hyperpigmentation ( dark spots ), hypopigmentation ( light spots ), and scarring . Ablative lasers and chemical peel solutions that create a significant amount of surface ablation , or that are designed to achieve medium-depths should be reserved for these lower Fitzpatrick types . ( MD ) Although types IV , V and VI are not ideal for lasers and peels , lower strength lasers whose energy is absorbed deeper ( Erbium , Nd-Yag , Halo ) and superficial peeling agents such as salicylic acid , glycolic , and enzymatic peels in lower strengths are designed for darker skin types with great results . Aggressive peel solutions are more appropriate for higher Fitzpatrick types , but require pre-treatment of the skin for 2-8 weeks depending on the individual .
Laser Hair Removal by Phototypes Include :
Fitzpatrick Skin Type I – The Alex laser is the best option for skin type I clients . Their lack of pigmentation means their skin doesn ’ t hold heat allowing for higher laser settings and better results .
Fitzpatrick Skin Type II – This is a much more common skin type for laser hair removal . Perfect for treatment with the Alex laser .
Fitzpatrick Skin Type III – The Alex laser is great for skin type III clients . But beware , sun exposure will move a skin type III client to a IV and skin type IV clients have to be treated on a YAG .
Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV – Has to be treated on a YAG laser due to a higher amount of melanin in the skin .
Fitzpatrick Skin Type V – Always treated on a YAG laser . The YAG makes lasers safe for darker skin types . And it ’ s very effective !
Fitzpatrick Skin Type VI – Can be treated safely with the YAG laser . Skin type VI clients can expect a couple of more laser treatments to be hair free than lighter skin clients . The settings for skin type VI are slightly lowered for safety . ( Plymouth Dermatology )
42 iS Skin Source