• Type I: Very fair, always burns, never tans
• Type II: Fair, usually burns
• Type III: Medium, sometimes burns
• Type IV–VI: Darker skin tones, rarely burn

The key difference? Melanin.

Melanin acts like a natural UV shield. People with lower melanin levels (Types I and II) are more vulnerable to UV damage.

That said, darker skin tones are not immune to sunburn or skin cancer — protection is still essential.

3. Genetics Play a Major Role

Beyond visible skin tone, your genes influence how your body responds to UV exposure.

For example:

• Variations in the MC1R gene are linked to red hair, freckles, and higher sunburn risk.
• Other genes influence:
  • Melanin production
  • DNA repair ability
  • Immune response

Some people simply inherit a lower tolerance for UV damage.