Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV

Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV: Safe Aesthetic Treatments for Olive and Medium-Brown Skin

Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV is commonly characterised by olive to light brown skin, often seen in individuals with Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Asian, or Latin American backgrounds. These individuals tend to tan easily and rarely burn, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to sun damage, skin cancer, or pigmentation issues—especially when exposed to unprotected UV rays or certain laser and light-based treatments.

Characteristics of Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV

Olive or light brown skin
Dark brown or black hair
Tans easily with minimal burning
Prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Increased risk of melasma, especially when on hormonal therapy (e.g. oral contraceptives or during pregnancy)
Moderate but present risk for skin cancer (e.g. BCC, SCC, and melanoma)

Risks & Considerations for Aesthetic Treatments

Although Skin Type IV tolerates many aesthetic treatments, it requires extra care due to the skin’s tendency to produce excess pigment in response to injury or heat.

Potential risks with laser or light-based procedures include:

Hyperpigmentation
Hypopigmentation (loss of pigment)
Melasma flare-ups
Scarring or textural changes

To reduce these risks:

Prepare the skin with pigment inhibitors (e.g. azelaic acid, kojic acid)
Avoid sun exposure before and after treatments
Choose devices and settings safe for darker skin tones

Safe Aesthetic Treatments for Skin Type IV

With proper preparation, Skin Type IV responds well to a range of non-aggressive aesthetic treatments, including:

Laser hair removal using Nd:YAG lasers (safe for darker skin)
Chemical peels (superficial to medium depth with caution)
Microneedling
Radiofrequency treatments

Caution is advised with intense pulsed light (IPL) and ablative lasers, as they may increase the risk of pigmentation changes.

Skincare Tips for Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV

To maintain healthy, radiant skin and minimise the risk of post-treatment issues:

Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Antioxidant-rich skincare to combat free radical damage
Regular skin checks for early signs of skin cancer
Hydration and barrier support to reduce sensitivity
Pigmentation control products like niacinamide

Skin Renewal’s Personalised Approach

At Skin Renewal, we take a doctor-led approach to skincare. Every client undergoes a full skin consultation before beginning any treatments. Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type, lifestyle, skin condition, and goals are all factored into a customised treatment plan to ensure safe, long-lasting results without complications.

Although Fitzpatrick Skin Type IV enjoys some natural sun protection, it is still susceptible to pigmentation disorders and sun-induced ageing. By combining professional aesthetic care with proper skin care and sun protection, individuals with olive-toned skin can safely enjoy rejuvenated, even-toned, and healthy skin.

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