Skin typing is primarily based on what reaction?

The primary basis for skin typing is indeed the way skin pigments react to light. This reaction is crucial because it determines the skin’s sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and its tendency to burn or tan. Skin typing helps in identifying how different skin types respond to sun exposure and tanning methods. Individuals with higher melanin levels typically have skin that tans more easily and is less prone to burning, while those with lower melanin levels are generally more susceptible to sunburn.

Other factors such as moisture levels, epidermal thickness, and the presence of acne do not directly determine a person’s response to light in the same way that pigment reaction does. While these characteristics can influence overall skin health and appearance, they are not the primary indicators used for skin typing in the context of UV exposure and tanning.