What are phototypes?

There is a routine for proper tanning for each phototype

Phototype is a characteristic that classifies different skin types based on their reaction to sun exposure and UV rays. 

Our phototype is determined by the amount of melanin in our skin, consequently telling us how it reacts when we sunbathe, that is, how much and how we tan. 

But what is melanin?

Melanin is a pigment found in our epidermis, eyes, and nervous system and ear tissues. 

It has a function photoprotective, in fact its job is precisely to protect us from UV rays, although when we get too much sun we turn red and feel a burning sensation. 

Overexposing ourselves to UV rays and getting so-called "sunburn" is harmful to our health (read this blog post to learn more). 

When we sunbathe in small doses and protect ourselves, however, melanin is responsible for the complexion everyone covets in summer: a tan. 

What is the correlation between tan and phototype?
And how best to tan each phototype?

Each phototype reacts differently to sun exposure because the amount of melanin in its skin is different. 

In dermatology, there are 6 classifications of phototype for different complexions. 

  • PHOTOTYPE 1

It is characterized by very light skin, and generally the eyes and hair are also light. 

It has a high sensitivity to UV rays, which is why it is good to use a very high SPF (50+): in fact, it tends to burn very easily and not tan. 

Albinos, with very light skin, belong to this category, so it would be best to avoid or minimize sun exposure, always with maximum protection. 

 

  • PHOTOTIPE 2 

Is less photosensitive than the first type, but still has fair skin. 

It does, however, gradually take on color when properly exposed to UV rays, but still needs good protection (SPF 50+ or 30 when already tanned) and plenty of care to avoid unpleasant sunburn, which is also always around the corner for it. 

 

  • PHOTOTIPE 3

Has a complexion that is still fair, but medium UV sensitivity, allowing it to take on a hazel complexion when exposed to the sun gradually. 

He can maintain a good complexion even in winter but still risks sunburn if he does not use proper precautions. 

An SPF 30 or 20 is recommended. 

 

  • PHOTOTIPE 4 

Has a tendentially darker, olive-toned complexion that tans more quickly and is at much less risk of sunburn. In fact, the risk is low; instead, the complexion is acquired quickly, and the recommended SPF is 20 or 15. 

 

  • PHOTOTIPE 5 

Has a very dark complexion and tans fairly quickly, taking on an intense complexion. 

His hair and eyes are also often dark, and it is rare for phototype 5 to get sunburned. In fact, he has a low sensitivity to UV rays, so he requires a medium protection index. 

 

  • PHOTOTYPE 6

This is the one that possesses the darkest complexion and lowest photosensitivity. He in fact possesses an intense complexion all year round and does not risk sunburn, although high exposure to the sun without adequate protection still harms his health by putting him at risk of skin cancer. 

In fact, as for all other phototypes, not excessive UV exposure is recommended; a medium or low SPF is appropriate for this phototype. 

Find out more on our website.

In conclusion, it is good for all phototypes to respect and protect their skin, making sure to follow the right precautions. Discover how get the sun the right way. 

Find out which After-Sun is right for you with a video by Sara, our Cosmetologist. Watch the video.

Sara recommends Super Sinergy for phototypes that tend to redden or sunburn. Watch the video to learn more.

Now all you have to do is choose from the sunscreens Napura and MTJ, the most suitable for your phototype. 

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