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Sunburn: Skin Types

Overview

Your skin type affects how easily you sunburn. Sun protection measures should be used to prevent sunburn.

Skin types and sunburn
Skin typeSkin colour when not exposed to sunHow skin reacts to sun

I

Lightest skin, red hair, freckles (extremely sensitive)

You sunburn very easily and are not likely to tan.

II

Very light skin, blue eyes (very sensitive)

You usually sunburn easily and tan a little.

III

Light skin (sensitive)

You sunburn sometimes and tan slowly.

IV

Light brown skin (moderately sensitive)

You sunburn a little and usually tan well.

V

Brown skin (minimally sensitive)

You rarely sunburn, and you tan well.

VI

Very dark skin (not sensitive)

You almost never sunburn, and you tan deeply.

Credits

Adaptation Date: 2/25/2022

Adapted By: Alberta Health Services

Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services

Adapted with permission from copyrighted materials from Healthwise, Incorporated (Healthwise). This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty and is not responsible or liable for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.