UV Index and Skin Types

Not all skin reacts to the sun in the same way. To help you protect yourself effectively, Sun Day uses the Fitzpatrick Scale, a scientific classification that describes how different skin types respond to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

The Fitzpatrick Scale

Type IAlways burns, never tans (very fair skin).
Type IIUsually burns, tans minimally (fair skin).
Type IIISometimes mild burn, tans uniformly (medium skin).
Type IVBurns minimally, always tans well (olive skin).
Type VVery rarely burns, tans very easily (dark brown skin).
Type VINever burns, deeply pigmented (black skin).

How the UV Index Changes the Rules

A UV index of 3 might be safe for Type IV skin for 45 minutes, while Type I skin could burn in less than 15. Sun Day calculates your "Time to Burn" and "Vitamin D Synthesis" specifically for your type.

Protect Your Skin

Download Sun Day and get personalized alerts for your skin type.