Skin Type | Skin Reactions to Solar Radiation* |
I | Always burns easily and severely (pain); tans little or none and peels |
II | Usually burns easily and severely (painful burn); tans minimally or lightly, also peels. |
III | Burns moderately and tans about average |
IV | Burns minimally, tans easily and above average with each exposure; exhibits IPD (immediate pigment darkening) reaction |
V | Rarely burns, tans easily and substantially; always exhibits IPD reaction |
VI | Never burns and tans profusely; exhibits IPD reaction |
Note: Categories are based on the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale.
*Based on the first 45-60 minutes (equals 2-3 minimum erythema dose) exposure of the summer sun (early June) at sea level.
**Immediate pigment darkening refers to the skin's response to sun exposure that occurs within the first few minutes to a few hours after exposure to sunlight.
Wis. Admin. Code Department of Safety and Professional Services, SPS 1-299, SPS 220, ch. SPS 220, app A