I learned today that I am a Fitzpatrick Type 4, maybe borderline 5. A brown paper bag is just about a Fitzpatrick 3. My skin is a shade darker than a brown paper bag, according to Thomas Fitzpatrick's 6-point scale of skin colours. I am biscuit-coloured. I'm a brownie.

Although Mr Fitzpatrick's primary interest was in the effect of ultraviolet radiation on different shades of skin, his system also created a simple metric for social desirability. In India, fairness has always signified beauty with brains, guaranteeing popularity and success. Fair people were winners.