What your skin tone says about your dark spots

The Fitzpatrick skin type scale classifies skin types, aka tones, into six categories based on melanin levels and how skin reacts to sun exposure and response to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Each skin type can have unique challenges and concerns regarding PIH, sunspots, and other forms of hyperpigmentation. Keep in mind that the Fitzpatrick system serves as a helpful guide rather than a strict classification, as not everyone fits perfectly into one category.

Type II skin is also light and can burn but may tan slightly with repeated sun exposure.
Hyperpigmentation concerns:

• Sun-induced hyperpigmentation:
  • Freckles
  • Sunspots
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): This can occur after inflammation/irritation, with redness turning into faint pigmentation.

Type III skin ranges from light olive to beige tones and can gradually tan while still susceptible to moderate sunburn.
Hyperpigmentation concerns:

• Sunspots and melasma: Especially in individuals with frequent sun exposure.
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Typically mild but can linger longer than in Types I and II.

Type IV skin is darker and tans easily with minimal burning.
Hyperpigmentation concerns:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Particularly prone, where acne marks or other skin injuries can turn into persistent dark marks.
• Melasma: Common concern in this skin type.
• Sunspots: Occur less frequently due to the protective effects of natural melanin.

Type V skin is deep brown and rarely burns but tans quickly.
Hyperpigmentation concerns:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Strong tendency, often triggered by acne, eczema, or even friction from clothing; these spots can take months to fade.
• Melasma and hormonal pigmentation: Common concerns for this skin type.

No matter your Fitzpatrick skin type, prevention starts with consistent sun protection. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, like Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Cream, should be applied daily as directed, regardless of season or weather, even if you do not burn quickly. Hats, sunglasses, and staying in the shade can offer additional protection, especially for lighter skin types prone to sun damage.

Follow these tips to visibly treat existing dark spots:

Sweep away dull skin cells with Even Better Brightening Essence Lotion, a lightweight formula that gently exfoliates while hydrating and helps prep the skin for your hyperpigmentation routine.

It is infused with gyokuro extract, a Japanese green tea packed with antioxidants, to help soothe irritation and reduce the chance of future dark spots. This formula helps refine the skin’s surface, visibly reduces redness, and promotes a smoother appearance.

To address uneven skin, Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum works across all skin tones by combining brightening agents with soothing ingredients to visibly improve discoloration.

Clinique’s "damage eraser" serum with UP302 Brightening Molecule helps brighten skin and visibly reduce dark spots while being gentle on all skin types. Featuring vitamin C, it targets existing hyperpigmentation and helps prevent new spots.

Keep your skin hydrated and radiant with Even Better Clinical Brightening Moisturizer to help visibly reduce the appearance of discoloration. Key ingredients like glucosamine work to gently loosen dead skin cells that contribute to uneven tone, while hyaluronic acid delivers deep hydration for smoother, plumper skin.

Hyperpigmentation is a complex issue that can vary based on skin tone. While lighter skin tones may be more prone to sun-induced dark spots, darker skin tones often struggle with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). By understanding your unique Fitzpatrick skin type and tailoring your skincare routine accordingly, you can more effectively address hyperpigmentation and achieve a more even, radiant looking complexion.