Which skin type would likely have a tougher epidermal barrier?

Fitzpatrick Type IV skin is characterized by a medium-to-dark tan that rarely burns, indicating a higher melanin content in the skin. This increased melanin not only provides more pigmentation but also contributes to a thicker epidermis and a more resilient epidermal barrier. Individuals with this skin type typically have more robust skin due to adaptations to greater sun exposure, which translates to a tougher barrier that is better at protecting against environmental aggressors and moisture loss.

The other Fitzpatrick skin types, such as Type I and II, have less melanin and are generally more prone to sunburn and skin damage. They tend to have a thinner epidermis, making their barrier less robust compared to Type IV. Type III skin, while slightly more pigmented than Type I and II, still does not possess the same level of melanin and barrier strength that Type IV skin does. Therefore, Fitzpatrick Type IV is indeed the correct choice for indicating a tougher epidermal barrier.