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In 1975, Fitzpatrick¹ introduced skin typing as a way of classifying individuals according to their burning and tanning responses to sun exposure. This system has proven useful in a variety of ways, such as for estimating starting doses in phototherapy and for discussion of skin acclimatization.^1-2 Its reliability, however, has been questioned; several investigators have failed to demonstrate a strong correlation between a patient's self-described skin type and actual sensitivity to UV radiation as defined by the minimum erythema dose (MED).^3-5

Methods

To address this continuing debate, we examined a larger population group by reviewing the charts of 412 patients who underwent phototherapy for psoriasis, eczema, or other conditions at the Massachusetts General Hospital Phototherapy Unit, Boston. Data on the relationship of skin type to broadband UV-B MED were assessed. Using the rubric for classifying skin type advocated by Fitzpatrick,¹ physicians or technicians asked each patient about his/her tendency to burn . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Results

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