Skin of color dermatology is evolving beyond race-based categories as researchers explore connections between genetic ancestry and skin disease.
Research outlined in a poster presented at Skin of Color Update found that genetically inferred ancestry predicts gene expression differences more accurately than self-identified race, with more than 8% of highly expressed genes—and more than 19% of skin-related genes—showing variation between ancestry groups. These differences, including genes linked to conditions such as lichen planus and skin cancer, may influence disease risk, severity, and treatment response.
In this Next Steps in Derm commentary, poster author Emily Uh, BS, shares the clinical impact of these and other findings about genetic ancestry and skin disease. While genetic ancestry should complement—not replace—clinical evaluation and consideration of social factors, ancestry-informed research may help advance precision dermatology and improve care for diverse populations.
For more articles on skin of color dermatology, including research summaries and video interviews with leading experts, visit the Skin of Color page of Next Steps in Derm.
