Skin tones vary significantly among many individuals due to several factors, and the skin is the primary indicator of beauty for both men and women. The color of one’s skin itself does not determine the attractiveness of individuals to others, nor can a specific skin color be considered dominant or aligned with defined beauty standards.
It is essential for everyone to know their skin tone because it facilitates many things, including, especially for women, determining suitable clothing colors that complement their skin tone. It also helps in selecting appropriate hair dye colors. Therefore, in this article, we will explain in detail the different skin tones and their names.
What are the skin colors?
Skin color is primarily determined by the presence of melanin pigment naturally found in the skin. Melanin is primarily responsible for the variation in skin color, ranging from lighter shades like white or pink to darker shades like brown or black, with various shades in between. The higher the concentration of melanin in the skin, the darker the color becomes, and vice versa.
The variation in skin color is also associated with differences in other facial features such as eye color, eyebrows, and hair color. Skin tones differ significantly from person to person due to various factors, including ethnicity, gender, genetics, inherited traits, excessive sun exposure, skincare practices, and other potential factors that can influence changes in skin color. Many of these factors can directly impact the level of melanin in the skin, leading to darker or lighter skin tones.
Skin tones and their names
1. Very fair skin
Very fair skin is considered one of the most sensitive types of skin and cannot tolerate prolonged sun exposure well. It tends to burn quickly when exposed to the sun. Individuals with this skin type often share certain characteristics, such as having red or blond hair. This skin type cannot change or become dark in any way. However, redness, mild inflammation, and freckles may appear on this skin type when exposed to the sun for extended periods of time.
2. Fair skin
People with fair skin are not the only ones sensitive to the sun. Skin types with lower melanin levels can also be considered less tolerant to intense sun exposure. In the case of fair skin being prone to sunburn, it does not develop dark spots but rather experiences redness, inflammation, and freckles, similar to very fair skin.
3. Medium complexion
This skin type is considered to have a medium fair complexion. It is also affected by the sun but to a lesser extent than the previous two skin types. When exposed to the sun for prolonged periods without protection, it may darken to some degree and develop brown sunspots.
4. Wheaten skin
This skin type is known as olive or wheatish complexion, with a medium brown shade that tends to lean towards lighter tones. It is the most common skin type found in various parts of the world. This skin type is less prone to sensitivity and sunburn when exposed to direct sunlight. It is difficult to see significant changes in the color of this skin type. It won’t drastically turn from wheatish to dark due to excessive sun exposure. Typically, individuals with an olive complexion also have brown hair and brown eyes.
5. Dark skin
This refers to a skin tone that is brown in shades similar to chocolate. It has low sensitivity to sunlight, and there are no significant effects when exposed to excessive sun exposure.
6. Very dark or black skin
This skin type is characterized by a beautiful, glossy black color. It is not affected by the sun regardless of prolonged exposure because it has low sensitivity to sunlight and does not burn like other skin tones.
The most important questions about skin colors and their names
1. How can I easily determine the color of the inner layer of my skin?
Knowing your skin tone directly helps you determine the most suitable colors for your clothing or makeup. There is a difference between the external color of the skin and the inner layer of the skin, known as undertone, which determines whether your skin tone is warm or cool.
You can determine if your skin tone is warm or cool by looking at the blood vessels on your wrist. If the color appears bluish, it means your skin tone is cool. If the blood vessels appear greenish, it indicates that your skin tone is warm. Additionally, skin that is not affected by the sun and does not have sensitivity to sunlight is considered warm, unlike sensitive skin, which is cool.
2. How do you protect very fair and fair skin from the sun?
It is essential to use a suitable sunscreen for your skin type to protect it from the sun. Additionally, wearing long-sleeved clothing, pants, sunglasses, and avoiding peak sun hours between 10 AM and 4 PM is advisable.