The human color scheme, according to the Fitzpatrick scale, has a numerical classification that falls between Types I and VI. Type I describes skin that is white and pale, while Type VI is classified as the darkest of brown. Although ethnic skin has a built-in sun protectant, it is prone to skin inflammatory conditions that may alter the skin's physical appearance. For example, darker skin types are susceptible to vitiligo, psoriasis, keloids, eczema, and hyperpigmentation. They are not as prone to couperose, hypopigmentation, or rosacea. Medium skin types are susceptible to vitiligo, hypopigmentation, psoriasis, keloids, eczema, and hyperpigmentation, but are not as prone to couperose or rosacea. Lighter skin types are disposed to couperose, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema; they are not as vulnerable to vitiligo, hypopigmentation, keloids, or hyperpigmentation.

There are similar frequencies of skin sensitivities that lighter skin and ethnic skin face, but certain stimuli may contribute to subtle differences based on human skin color. Certain skin conditions, such as acne, may be influenced by hormonal fluctuations across skin variance. Because darker skin produces more melanocytes, its healing process differs from Caucasian skin, causing discoloration, hyperpigmentation, and scarring to the surface of the skin.

The Fitzpatrick scale is helpful, but it does not distinguish common skin conditions based on skin color. By identifying the biological comparison and the distinct classification of skin color, professionals will be able to assess ethnic skin in its entirety.

When suggesting treatments, services, and products, both the skin's color and its functionality play a significant role in understanding human skin differences.