Skin Types

Everyone has a different skin complexion genetically, mainly determined by melanin content. To simplify the vast variation in the different skin types, all people are categorised into six Skin Types (based on the Fitzpatrick Phototype Scale).

Depending on your skin type, you have more or less natural Sun protection and susceptibility to sun-induced skin damage.
People with lighter hair and fairer skin (therefore with a lower Skin Type value) are more at risk of developing Basal Cell Carcinoma and Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma (Elmets et al., 2001).

Himaya Natural Sunscreen diagram of different skin type categories

Knowledge of your Skin Type is vital in determining your safe period of sun exposure calculated with the UV Index for that day. It is also required to calculate how your safe period of sun exposure is extended with the applicable SPF  (Sun Protection Factor) of the sunscreen you are using.

Below is a diagram illustrating the characteristic differences between each skin type and possible genetic origins to help you determine your skin type.