The classification of skin phototypes depends on the skin response to sunlight. This is determined by skin colour (white, brown or black skin) and the result of exposure to ultraviolet radiation (tanning). There are six skin phototypes, based on the sunburning and tanning response to sunlight: Skin type Typical features Sunburn suscep-tibility Tanning ability Skin cancer risk I Pale white skin, blue/hazel eyes, blond/red hair High None High II Fair skin, blue eyes High Poor High III Darker white skin Moderate Good Low IV Olive skin Low Very good Low V Brown Very low Excellent Very low VI Dark brown or black skin Very low Excellent Very low