Presentation description

The Fitzpatrick Scale is a widely recognized classification system developed in 1975 by Dr. Thomas B. Fitzpatrick to categorize human skin color based on its response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This scale was designed to assess the risk of sunburn and potential for tanning by dividing skin types into six categories. The skin types range from Type I, being very fair skin that always burns and never tans all the way to Type VI being deeply pigmented skin that rarely burns and tans very easily. This classification provides a valuable framework for dermatologists and other healthcare professionals in predicting an individual's risk of sun damage, skin cancer, and their likely response to various dermatological treatments. By understanding the scale, practitioners can better tailor treatments, ensuring both efficacy and safety. However, the scale has limitations, such as reliance on self-reporting of sun reaction and its primary focus on sun exposure, which may not fully encompass the complexities of skin pigmentation and ethnic diversity. Moreover, the scale's categories may not adequately represent foundational tool in dermatology and aesthetic medicine, aiding in clinical decision-making and public health efforts aimed at promoting sun safety and skin health. Its continued use underscores the importance of personalized approaches in managing skin care and treatment, reflecting the diverse needs of different skin types. In this study, we used data from an ongoing study, called the RISE-UP to analyze Fitzpatrick scores for the Utah population. The study will the reliability of self-reporting Fitzpatrick skin type, the accuracy of the scale itself, and the demographics of the population in order to better understand how the Fitzpatrick scale is limited.