Fitzpatrick Skin Types Explained
The six skin types, and why they matter for safe laser hair removal
Short answer: The Fitzpatrick scale sorts skin into six types, from type I (very fair, always burns) to type VI (deeply pigmented, never burns), based on how it reacts to the sun. Laser practitioners use it to choose the right laser and settings, because darker skin absorbs more laser energy and is more at risk of burns and pigmentation changes.
The six Fitzpatrick skin types
| Type | Typical skin | Reaction to sun |
|---|---|---|
| I | Very fair, often red or blond hair, light eyes, freckles | Always burns, never tans |
| II | Fair | Usually burns, tans minimally |
| III | Medium | Sometimes burns, tans gradually |
| IV | Olive or light brown | Rarely burns, tans easily |
| V | Brown | Very rarely burns, tans very easily |
| VI | Deeply pigmented dark brown to black | Never burns |
How is skin type assessed?
A Fitzpatrick assessment is part of every laser consultation. The practitioner asks how the client's skin reacts to the sun, whether they burn or tan, and about their natural eye and hair colour and their heritage. They also check for a recent tan or fake tan, both of which temporarily make the skin darker. A patch test then confirms how the skin responds before a full treatment.
Why skin type matters for laser hair removal
Laser hair removal works by targeting melanin, the pigment in the hair. But melanin is also in the skin. The more pigment in the skin, the more it competes with the hair for the laser's energy.
- Types I to III are usually treated with lasers such as the alexandrite (755 nm), which is strongly absorbed by melanin and very effective on hair.
- Types IV to VI can be treated safely with the right technology, such as the Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm). It travels deeper and is absorbed less by skin pigment, used with longer pulses and careful settings.
Getting skin type wrong can lead to blistering, burns, and darker or lighter patches of skin that can take months to fade and sometimes never return to normal.
Does laser work on dark skin?
Yes, with the right laser and a trained practitioner. In a clinic with both alexandrite and Nd:YAG options, all skin types can be treated safely.
Learn more
Our free Skin Types and the Fitzpatrick Scale guide explains all six types and everyday skin types in plain English. Ready to train? Our CPD Laser Hair Removal course teaches skin assessment, patch testing and safe settings hands-on in our East Grinstead laser clinic.
Frequently asked questions
What Fitzpatrick type is best for laser?
Fair skin with dark hair gives the most contrast, but all skin types can be treated with the right laser.
Does laser work on blonde, grey or red hair?
These hair colours contain little of the dark pigment lasers target, so results are usually limited.
Can I have laser if I am tanned?
You should wait until the tan has faded. Tanned skin absorbs more energy and is at higher risk of burns.
Related: Do you need a qualification to do laser hair removal?
About Enhance Training Academy
Enhance Training Academy is the training arm of Enhance Aesthetics & Beauty, a working laser, beauty and aesthetics clinic at 1 Whitehall Parade, London Road, East Grinstead, RH19 1AP. Our tutors are practising therapists who treat clients every day. We offer CPD accredited courses and VTCT qualifications, with online theory and hands-on practical training. Call 01342 301544 or email [email protected].