We each fall into one of four phototypes and have different approaches to sunbathing and UV protection. What care should we take to ensure that our skin is not unnecessarily damaged and can successfully regenerate?
Phototype 1 – These individuals should not go into a tanning salon. Typical features are very pale skin, usually covered with a significant amount of freckles, red headdress, and light eyes. In the Czech Republic, it is found in only 3% of the total population, but it is by far the most common in the Nordic countries and Ireland. In summer, sunbathing for no more than 10 minutes is recommended, and sunscreen with a high UV coefficient should be applied frequently. Thinner skin areas such as earlobes, nose, and eyelids are most affected.
Phototype 2 – characterized by fair skin that occasionally darkens in the sun. Sun exposure should be limited to about 20 minutes and sunscreen with a factor of about 20. This applies to about one-tenth of Czechs.
Phototype 3– The highest percentage in the Czech Republic, with just under 80% of the population consisting of this type. Hair is blonde, but often chestnut colored. A sun protection factor of about 12 is sufficient, and up to 30 minutes of sun exposure per day in summer is recommended.
Phototype 4is the most sun-sensitive with freckle-free brown skin, brown eyes, and dark brown or black hair. Also, vitamin D takes longer to be produced in the skin after sun exposure, unlike fair skin, which is produced after a short exposure. These people make up about 8% of the Czech population, and although exposure to sunlight for up to one hour per day is recommended, that does not mean that these people are not at risk for sunburn, DNA damage, and skin cancer.