The Colorimetric Scale for Skin of Color (CSSC) can Provide a Standardized Classification System for Patients with Diverse Skin Tones - Takeaways - MDSpire

The Colorimetric Scale for Skin of Color Offers a Standardized Way to Classify Diverse Skin Tones

By
Philip R. Cohen
October 14, 2026

Dermatology And Therapy

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1

The CSSC is a nonracial, nonethnic system designed to classify skin tones in people with skin of color.
2

The CSSC has five categories, ranging from type 1, very light beige, to type 5, very dark brown.
3

The CSSC is described as rapid, simple, and inexpensive, and it can be used to assess living patients and deceased individuals.
4

The CSSC has not undergone prospective validation of its reliability or reproducibility, and visual assessments may vary with observer and viewing conditions.
5

The scale is proposed for dermatologic and forensic use, while anticipated benefits for diagnosis and health equity remain unvalidated.