How does PromoCell determine the phototype of skin tissue donors?

We use a classification system similar but not identical to the Fitzpatrick Skin Classification. The Fitzpatrick classification has six different categories (phototypes  I-VI) which correlate with the level of skin pigmentation (melanin) and sunburn following sun exposure. Fitzpatrick I corresponds with the lightest of skin complexions, while Fitzpatrick VI corresponds with the darkest skin.

• I: Pale white skin, blue/hazel eyes, blond/red hair, always burns, does not tan
• II: Fair skin, blue eyes, burns easily, tans poorly
• III: Darker white skin, tans after initial burn
• IV: Light brown skin, burns minimally, tans easily
• V: Brown skin, rarely burns, tans darkly easily
• VI: Dark brown or black skin, never burns, always tans darkly

At PromoCell, we have knowledge of the patients’ skin color (white, brown or black skin), color of eyes and hair, but we don't have any details about the burning/tanning abilities. We therefore classify our tissue donors as follows:

• Light (comprising phototypes I and II)
• Moderate (comprising phototypes III and IV)
• Dark (comprising phototypes V and VI)

Information on the phototype is available for most cell lots isolated from juvenile or adult skin.