Which skin type is generally most susceptible to sunburn?

Type I skin is characterized by very fair skin, often with light-colored hair and blue or green eyes. This skin type typically burns easily and rarely tans, making it highly susceptible to sunburn. The reason for this increased vulnerability lies in the lower levels of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for skin protection against UV radiation. Individuals with Type I skin often have a low level of natural protection from the sun, leading to a higher risk of damage upon exposure.

As for the other skin types, Type II, while still vulnerable to sunburn, has slightly more melanin than Type I, providing some additional protection. Type III skin can tan and typically burns less easily. Type IV skin has even more melanin and usually tans well, making it the least susceptible to sunburn. This differentiating factor of melanin levels is crucial in understanding why Type I is the most susceptible to sunburn.