Glogau Scale
Pronunciation: GLOH-gow
A four-category photoageing classification system grading the degree of facial wrinkling and sun damage from Type I (minimal) to Type IV (severe), used to guide treatment selection.
Full Definition
The Glogau Photoaging Classification Scale was developed by dermatologist Richard Glogau and is widely cited in cosmetic dermatology literature to standardise patient assessment and outcome reporting. The four types (I–IV) range from early-stage sun damage with minimal wrinkling to severe photoageing with wrinkles at rest and significant keratoses. Editors must capitalise 'Glogau' as an eponymous scale and use roman numerals (I–IV) for the classification types, not Arabic numerals. The scale is commonly referenced in research methodology sections and marketing materials but should not be used as a synonym for the Fitzpatrick Skin Type scale, which classifies skin phototype, not ageing severity.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise 'Glogau' throughout. Use roman numerals I–IV for classification types. Do not conflate with the Fitzpatrick Scale, which measures skin phototype, not ageing.