Your skin type is one of the main factors in your when considering your risk for skin cancer. There are six skin phototypes, going from the lightest skin to the darkest. Those with skin types I and II face the highest risk of developing skin cancer and types V and VI are at the lowest risk. People with more natural pigmentation have more natural protection from the sun. People with darker skin (higher numbered skin types) are not immune to skin cance and still need to practice sun protection. Like the lower numbered skin types, they still need to be cautious of the sun and have regular examinations by a doctor.

	Type I:  Is very fair, burns easily and severely and does not tan.  Eyes are blue or green and hair is blond or red.
	Type II:  Is also fair and burns easily, but does get a minimal tan.  Eyes are blue, hazel or brown, and hair is blond, red or brown.
	Type III:  Is somewhat darker and sometimes burns then tans.
	Type IV:  Is darker still, never burns, and always tans rapidly.
	Types V & VI: dark black or brown skin.