Skin Phototype Classification with Machine Learning Based on Broadband Optical Measurements

The Fitzpatrick Skin Phototype Classification (FSPC) scale is widely used to categorize skin types but has limitations such as the underrepresentation of darker skin phototypes, low classification resolution, and subjectivity. These limitations may contribute to dermatological care disparities in patients with darker skin phototypes, including the misdiagnosis of wound healing progression and escalated dermatological disease severity. This study introduces (1) an optical sensor measuring reflected light across 410-940 nm, (2) an unsupervised K-means algorithm for skin phototype classification using broadband optical data, and (3) methods to optimize classification across the Near-ultraviolet-A, Visible, and Near-infrared spectra. The differentiation capability of the algorithm was compared to human assessment based on FSPC in a diverse participant population (<i>n</i> = 30) spanning an even distribution of the full FSPC scale. The FSPC assessment distinguished between light and dark skin phototypes (e.g., FSPC I vs. VI) at 560, 585, and 645 nm but struggled with more similar phototypes (e.g., I vs. II). The K-means algorithm demonstrated stronger differentiation across a broader range of wavelengths, resulting in better classification resolution and supporting its use as a quantifiable and reproducible method for skin type classification. We also demonstrate the optimization of this method for specific bandwidths of interest and their associated clinical implications.