Tag

skin of color dermatology

Dec 22
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SOCU in the News: Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria

By Uncategorized

chronic spontaneous urticaria

Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) belongs in the dermatology wheelhouse, according to dermatologist Mona Shahriari, MD, FAAD. In a Medscape article about her Skin of Color Update session on the topic, Dr. Shahriari explains that dermatologists are better trained than allergists in differentiating CSU from other skin disorders.

While CSU is debilitating in patients no matter their skin type, Dr. Shahriari says CSU is especially impactful in patients with skin of color who often have a longer time to diagnosis. In addition, dermatology clinicians are often slower to prescribe stronger, more effective treatments in patients with skin of color as the severity of CSU is more difficult to appreciate in patients with darker skin tones.

In the article, Dr. Shahriari outlines her practical strategies for recognizing CSU and its severity, and she outlines therapies, including the recently approved remibrutinib. Dr. Shahriari recommends dermatologists have a lower threshold in prescribing targeted therapies in patients with CSU when first-line therapies have not shown to be effective.

For more on chronic spontaneous urticaria and other medical dermatology conditions, attend one of our sister conferences, the ODAC Dermatology Conference, to be held in Orlando from January 16-19. ODAC Conference Co-Chair Dr. Adam Friedman will provide a disease state update on CSU. Other ODAC sessions will address hidradenitis suppurativa, lupus and dermatomyositis, and prurigo nodularis – all conditions that are more common in patients with skin of color.

Oct 27
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SOCU in the News: Dr. Battle’s Career Insights

By Media Coverage

skin of color dermatology

Skin of Color Update co-chair Eliot F. Battle, MD, was featured in an American Journal of Managed Care article that outlined some of Dr. Battle’s career insights in skin of color dermatology. He shared those insights in his Skin of Color Update session on using lasers and energy-based devices in patients with darker skin tones.

Dr. Battle tells how skin of color dermatology has changed since he became a dermatologist, and gives his insight into the future. In the article, Dr. Battle reveals how he’s grown his practice in Washington, D.C., by treating conservatively and seeing each patient as an individual. Dr. Battle outlines the safety and effectiveness of various lasers and energy-based devices in patients with darker skin tones. He also encourages dermatologists to become an expert on their devices and to treat more conservatively than manufacturers’ parameters.

Oct 21
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Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd Joins SOCU Advisory Team

By Skin of Color Update Agenda

Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd

Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, FAAD, has been named Skin of Color Update’s program development advisor. Dr. Woolery-Lloyd is a frequent lecturer at Skin of Color Update and director of the Skin of Color Division for the University of Miami Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery.

“It is a true honor to be asked to serve as a program development advisor for Skin of Color Update,” Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says. “Skin of Color Update has long been a go-to resource for me and so many of my colleagues. I’ve been consistently impressed by this meeting’s ability to keep clinicians up to date on the latest in skin of color dermatology. I’m excited to have the opportunity to lend my expertise and help shape what is sure to be another successful and exciting year.”

Dr. Woolery-Lloyd will join Skin of Color Update founders and conference co-chairs Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH, FAAD, and Eliot F. Battle, MD, in planning the 2026 conference, which will be held October 9-11 at the New York Hilton Midtown. 

“I have had the pleasure of collaborating with Dr. Woolery-Lloyd for many years, and she has been one of our top speakers at Skin of Color Update since its inception,” Dr. Alexis says. “She brings extensive clinical and research experience in the field and is a passionate educator. I look forward to continuing to develop innovative, practical educational content with her and my co-chair, Dr. Eliot Battle.”

“Dr. Woolery-Lloyd’s expertise in skin of color dermatology, her ongoing contributions to the field, and her unwavering commitment to the Skin of Color Update conference make her an ideal addition as we work to shape a forward-thinking, clinically relevant and impactful educational program,” Dr. Battle says.

Sep 30
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SOCU Faculty Research: Thiamidol for Hyperpigmentation

By Skin of Color Update Agenda

hyperpigmentation

Skin of Color Update faculty are experts in skin of color dermatology. Eight faculty members were involved with this recent Journal of Drugs in Dermatology article on Thiamidol as a treatment for hyperpigmentation.

Drs. Cheri Frey, Pearl Grimes, Valerie Callender, Andrew Alexis, Hilary Baldwin, Nada Elbuluk, Susan Taylor, and Seemal Desai conducted the review of pre-clinical and clinical safety and efficacy data of Thiamidol formulations. Thiamidol or isobutylamido thiazolyl resorcinol, has been identified as the most effective human tyrosinase inhibitor out of 50,000 compounds screened. The researchers wrote that Thiamidol appears to be safe and effective and should be considered when recommending over-the-counter treatment options to patients with hyperpigmentation.

For the latest research and updates in the treatment of hyperpigmentation, attend Skin of Color Update. Register today!

Sep 18
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SOCU Faculty in the News: Dr. Karan Lal

By Skin of Color Update Agenda

pediatric psoriasis

Skin of Color Update faculty member Karan Lal, DO, FAAD, wrote the August cover story for Dermatology Times on the hidden burdens of pediatric psoriasis.

In the article, Dr. Lal addresses the need for early intervention and awareness of systemic comorbidities linked to pediatric psoriasis, including uveitis, arthritis, obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and metabolic syndrome. Dr. Lal also comments on  available therapies and treatment obstacles in this patient population.

Dr. Lal will participate in an expert discussion at Skin of Color Update on addressing comorbidities in dermatologic disorders, including psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. This discussion will also address the potential role of GLP-1 agonists. In addition, Dr. Lal will present on pediatric dermatology pearls for treating patients with skin of color.

Register for Skin of Color Update and attend lectures by premier experts in dermatology on topics that impact your patients.

Aug 12
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Inflammatory Skin Conditions in Children With Skin of Color – SOCU 2024

By Medical Dermatology

inflammatory skin conditions in children with skin of color

A keen eye is required when dermatology clinicians treat inflammatory skin conditions in patients with skin of color. Pediatric dermatologist Brandi Kenner-Bell, MD, FAAD, spoke with Next Steps in Derm at Skin of Color Update 2024 about what to look for when diagnosing inflammatory skin conditions in patients with darker skin tones, and what’s important to know when treating children.

Watch as Dr. Kenner-Bell shares the importance of knowing what treatments have FDA approval for use in children and which do not. Plus find out how pigmentary concerns should impact your course of treatment.

Register for Skin of Color Update for more pearls in treating inflammatory skin conditions in patients with skin of color.

Jul 30
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Cosmetic Procedures in Patients with Skin of Color: Highlights from SOCU 2024

By Sessions

cosmetic procedures in patients with skin of color

At Skin of Color Update 2024, Dr. Cheryl Burgess delivered an insightful presentation on providing safe and effective cosmetic treatments for patients with skin of color. Her talk emphasized the importance of understanding both biological and cultural differences to minimize complications and enhance outcomes.

Dr. Burgess highlighted that, while all individuals have the same number of melanocytes, patients with darker skin have larger melanosomes, increasing their risk for hyperpigmentation. She also explained how cultural beauty ideals—such as preferences for lighter skin in Southeast Asia or fuller body figures in West Africa—can shape patient expectations and treatment goals.

Histologically, skin of color differs in fibroblast structure, melanin dispersion, and vascular reactivity, making it more prone to scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Dr. Burgess stressed careful diagnosis using tools like a Wood’s lamp and colorimeters, and advocated for test spots and low-concentration peels to ensure safety.

She identified the Nd:YAG 1064nm laser as the safest option for hair removal and pigmentation treatment, while advising against IPL due to risks of burns. Other effective technologies include radiofrequency and ultrasound-based treatments, which require cautious use.

Finally, Dr. Burgess underscored the need for cultural sensitivity in cosmetic enhancements, such as lip augmentation preferences among Black patients and body image norms in West Africa. Her presentation called for a personalized, informed approach to cosmetic dermatology that combines clinical skill with cultural understanding.

This session summary was written by Dr. Nidhi Shah and published on Next Steps in Derm.

Jul 25
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JDD Buzz: Diversity in Melasma Clinical Trials

By SOC Manuscripts

diversity in melasma clinical trials

A recent Journal of Drugs in Dermatology study looked at the diversity of patients enrolled in melasma clinical trials to determine if there are any disparities in representation.

Read this interview with author Jared Jagdeo, MD, MS, associate professor of dermatology and director of the Center for Photomedicine at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. Learn Dr. Jagdeo’s key takeaways from the study and hear his advice for researchers in increasing representation in a study population.

Register for Skin of Color Update 2025 and learn the latest in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of melasma.

Jul 11
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Drug Approvals in Medical Dermatology at SOCU with Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH

By Medical Dermatology, Sessions

drug approvals in medical dermatology

In the last few years, the FDA has granted approval to several dermatologic therapies that impact patients with skin of color. At Skin of Color Update 2024, Conference Co-Chair Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH, spoke with Next Steps in Derm about some of the recently approved topical, biological, and oral therapies.

Watch and learn how these newly approved treatments address conditions that disproportionately affect and burden patients with skin of color. Wonder what’s coming? Dr. Alexis shares his take on what’s ahead in the drug pipeline.

Register for Skin of Color Update 2025 for more updates in medical therapies for patients with skin of color.

Apr 20
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SKIN OF COLOR UPDATE PRE-CONFERENCE VIRTUAL SYMPOSIUM

By Medical Dermatology, Sessions, Skin of Color Update Agenda
A Case-Based Conversation with The Experts: Treating Pigmentary Disorders in Skin of Color Patients
SKIN OF COLOR UPDATE PRE-CONFERNECE VIRTUAL SYMPOSIUM
TUESDAY, AUGUST 3RD | 6:00PM ET – 9:00PM ET
The Skin of Color Update invites you to join its pre-conference symposium where co-chairs Drs. Andrew Alexis and Eliot Battle will host an interactive, case-based conversation with pigmentary disorders experts. Faculty will review treatment options for common as well as challenging and less frequently discussed pigmentary conditions in skin of color patients. Through a detailed review of each case, panelists will provide guidance and evidence-based treatment protocols as well as practical pearls drawn from their clinical experience. You will walk away from this session armed with clinical pearls immediately useful in your practice. In addition, all panelists will participate in live Q&A sessions to answer your most pressing questions about treating pigmentary disorders in SOC.
AGENDA
6:00-6:05 PM – Welcome & Introductions from Symposium Moderators – Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH & Elliot F. Battle, MD
6:05-6:20 PM – A Challenging Case of Melasma – Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD
6:20-6:35 PM – A Case of Vitiligo Treated with Pulsed Corticosteroids/JAK-Inhibitor – Seemal Desai, MD
6:35-6:50 PM – Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation(PIH) Topical & Procedural Treatment – Neelam Vashi, MD
6:50-7:00 PM – Live Audience Q&A
7:00-8:00PM – For Patients with Plaque Psoriasis: An Oral, Non-Biologic Therapy With Data on Clearer Skin and Symptoms – Paul Wallace, MD, MPA (Non-CE Workshop)
8:00-8:05 PM – Welcome & Introductions from Symposium Moderators – Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH & Elliot F. Battle, MD
8:05-8:20 PM – A Challenging Case of Erythema Dyschromicum Perstans – Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc
8:20-8:35 PM – A Case of Hypopigmented Mycosis Fungoides – Eva Kerby, MD
8:35-8:50 PM – Lichen Planus Pigmentosus – Mukta Sackdev, MD
8:50-9:00 PM – Live Audience Q&A
SYMPOSIUM CO-CHARIS
Andrew F. Alexis, MD, MPH
Eliot F. Battle, MD
EXPERT FACULTY
Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD
Nada Elbuluk MD, MSc
Eva Kerby, MD
Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD
Mukta Sachdev, MD
Neelam Vashi, MD
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