Sunburn and Sun Poisoning (cont.)
Why does the skin tan after exposure to UV rays?
The skin contains a pigment called melanin. It colors the skin, imparting the
variety of skin tones we all recognize.
Melanin blocks at least some of the UV rays from penetrating the skin. After
repeated or prolonged exposure to UV rays, the skin produces more melanin.
Consequently, the skin darkens, or tans, which in turn protects the skin to a
certain degree.
Who is most susceptible to sunburn?
Persons with certain pigment disorders (such as albinism) and persons with
fair skin are at highest risk of suffering a burn. The American Academy of
Dermatology classifies skin types into six categories (in terms of
susceptibility to sunburn) for skin colors ranging from fair to black. This is
called the Fitzpatrick classification. These skin types are as follows:
Types 1 and 2: High Susceptibility to Sunburn
- Individuals with Skin Type 1 have very fair skin (pale or milky white), blond or
red hair, and possibly freckles. Such persons can suffer a burn in less than
one-half hour when exposed to summer sunlight at midday. People with Skin Type 1 never tan.
- Individuals with Skin Type 2 have very light brown skin and possibly freckles.
They burn in a short time in the sun, although they can achieve a very light
tan.
Types 3 and 4: Moderate Susceptibility to Sunburn
- Individuals with Skin Type 3 (called "average Caucasians" by The American Academy
of Dermatology) have skin that is slightly more brown than the skin of a Type 2.
They can develop a moderate sunburn and a light brown tan.
- Individuals with Skin Type 4 have olive-colored skin. Ordinarily, they develop
only a minor sunburn while acquiring a moderate tan.
Types 5 and 6: Minimal or No Susceptibility to Sunburn
- Individuals with Skin Type 5 have brown skin and can develop a dark tan while
rarely burning.
- Individuals with Skin Type 6 have black skin and never burn.
- It is often difficult to accurately determine an individual's skin type simply by
looking at the color of the skin. It is best to ask the person how quickly
they may burn and how easily they tan. Based on the response to these simple
questions, the skin type can be determined.
Next: Can diseases cause a heightened sensitivity to UV rays? »
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