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Updating the Fitzpatrick Classification: The Skin Color and Ethnicity Scale.
William Coleman1, Kavita Mariwalla2, Pearl Grimes3
1Coleman Center for Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgery, Metairie, Louisiana.
Summary
A new Skin Color Ethnicity (SCE) scale refines the Fitzpatrick scale for better accuracy in classifying skin tones. This updated scale, subdividing Fitzpatrick types 4 and 5, aims to improve scientific reporting for skin of color research.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Medical Aesthetics
- Genetics
Background:
- Increasing submissions on 'Skin of Color' highlight challenges in accurate terminology.
- Existing skin color classification scales lack precision for diverse populations.
- Need for improved stratification of skin types in medical and surgical contexts.
Approach:
- Conducted a comprehensive literature review of existing skin color scales using PubMed and Embase.
- Performed an extensive internet search, utilizing makeup foundation ranges for skin tone matching.
- Achieved consensus on refining the Fitzpatrick scale to address limitations in classifying diverse skin tones.
Key Points:
- Fitzpatrick types 4 and 5 were identified as particularly ambiguous, encompassing varied responses to treatments.
- Subdividing Fitzpatrick types 4 and 5 into 'A' and 'B' categories enhances specificity.
- The newly developed SCE scale (Skin Color Ethnicity) offers improved categorization.
Conclusions:
- The SCE scale provides a more accurate method for stratifying skin color, particularly for Fitzpatrick types 4 and 5.
- This updated scale is expected to enhance the precision of scientific data reporting in dermatology and related fields.
- Improved classification of skin of color will benefit research and clinical practice concerning diverse patient populations.
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