The Roberts Skin Type Classification System

The Roberts Skin Type Classification System is a 4-part serial system that comprehensively identifies a patient's skin type characteristics, and provides data to predict the skin's likely response to insult, injury, and inflammation (i/i/i) for individuals of global skin types. The clinician evaluates 4 elements (phototype, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and scarring) and assigns a numeric "feature" to each, according to established and original scales. The 4-part serial profile is constructed based on a combination of quantitative and qualitative assessment leading to the patient's skin type classification: (a) a review of ancestral and clinical history, (b) visual examination, (c) test site reactions, and (d) physical examination of the patient's skin. This classification system can uniquely help determine the course of treatment, clarify postprocedure expectations, and optimize outcomes. This individualized approach to identifying features and elements in various skin types will positively impact on physician communication, patient awareness and compliance, and preventive measures.