Tag

skin of color dermatology

Jun 24
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How to Prevent and Manage Laser & Device Complications in Patients With Skin of Color

By Sessions

laser and device complications

Patients with skin of color are at a greater risk of complications when treated with lasers and devices. Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with Skin of Color Update, interviewed Dr. Arielle Kauvar, clinical professor of dermatology at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, for her pearls on preventing and managing complications. Watch as Dr. Kauvar explains the different cooling methods used to prevent pigmentary alterations due to laser and device treatment. Find out how Dr. Kauvar conducts pre-procedure exams and why she says they are important. Plus hear how taking certain steps before treatment can prevent complications.

Further Reading

If you want to read more about using lasers and devices in patients with skin of color, check out the following articles published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology:

A Single-Center, Open-Label, Prospective Study of a 589/1319 nm Dual Wavelength Laser for the Treatment of Facial Hyperpigmentation

ABSTRACT

Background: Facial hyperpigmentation, characterized by the excessive production of melanin in the skin, is a prevalent dermatological concern affecting individuals of various ethnic backgrounds.

Aims: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a multi-wavelength 589/1319 nm dual-pulse duration laser device for the treatment of hyperpigmentation

Patients/Methods: A total of 17 healthy women (mean [SD] age of 43.4 [11.6] with skin phototype II-IV) were enrolled in this prospective, single-center study. Eligible participants received up to 3 treatments spaced 3 to 5 weeks apart with 2 follow-up visits at 4 and 12 weeks after the final treatment. Assessments included investigator ratings of skin quality, global aesthetic improvement, and hyperpigmentation. Safety and tolerability were monitored throughout the study.

Results: Significant improvements in hyperpigmentation and skin quality were observed at the 2 follow-up visits from baseline in most patients per investigator assessments. Patient satisfaction was high, and treatments were safe with transient self-resolving side effects such as erythema.

Conclusions: Laser treatments using a dual-wavelength 589/1319nm device significantly improve facial hyperpigmentation in patients of various skin types.

Supplement Individual Article: Algorithm for Pre-/Post-Procedure Measures in Racial/Ethnic Populations Treated With Facial Lasers, Nonenergy Devices, or Injectables

ABSTRACT

Background: Cosmetic procedures with lasers, nonenergy devices, and injectables are increasing in popularity among patients with skin of color. Published algorithms address measures to reduce side effects related to aesthetic procedures; however, none focus on reducing adverse events in skin of color.

Methods: An expert panel of dermatologists and plastic surgeons conducted face-to-face and online meetings to develop an algorithm for measures before, during, and after using aesthetic devices (energy and nonenergy-based) and injectable treatments based on the best available evidence for skin of color. Published algorithms and literature searches for aesthetic procedures provided guidance for the current algorithm. A modified Delphi method was used to reach a consensus to apply outcomes of literature searches, along with expert opinion, resulting in the current algorithm.

Results: The four sections of the algorithm outline an approach to optimize outcomes with specific before, during, and after procedure considerations. Pre-procedural consultation includes the development of a specific treatment plan based on individual patient goals and risk profile (including history and signs that may predict a higher risk for pigmentary or scarring complications). Before the procedure, sun avoidance and sunscreen use are emphasized; herpes simplex virus 1 prophylaxis and bleaching agents are administered if indicated. During the procedure, skin cleansing products are addressed, along with judicious techniques to minimize unintended cutaneous injury or inflammation. Post-procedural sunscreen and gentle skincare that may include skin-lightening agents or formulations designed to prevent infection and promote optimum healing are advised.

Conclusions: The algorithm strives to optimize treatment outcomes for patients with skin of color by providing their physicians with guidance on measures before, during, and after office-based medical aesthetic procedures.

Did you enjoy this video interview? Find more here.

May 27
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Pigmentary Impact of Acne: SOCU Video Interview

By Sessions

pigmentary impact of acne

“Our patients hate these marks. They hate them more than they hated their acne to begin with.”  — Hilary Baldwin, MD, FAAD

Don’t miss this insightful interview on the pigmentary impact of acne, conducted by Next Steps in Derm in partnership with Skin of Color Update. Dr. Baldwin reviews how her management of acne and post‑inflammatory pigmentary changes has evolved. She shares practical, clinic-ready guidance including:

  • Whether to take an acne‑first approach or treat acne and hyperpigmentation simultaneously
  • Why “scars” is often the wrong term for certain post‑acne pigmentary changes
  • How she safely incorporates new over‑the‑counter topicals into patients’ routines to address pigmentary alteration

If you treat acne in patients with skin of color (or anyone troubled by persistent pigmentation), join us in Chicago June 6 and 7 for the Pigmentary Disorders Exchange Symposium. Sessions will address the pigmentary sequelae of inflammatory skin conditions, including acne and atopic dermatitis, as well as the latest in the management of pigmentary conditions, including melasma and vitiligo.

Apr 21
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Scarring Alopecias: SOCU Interview with Dr. Susan Taylor

By Medical Dermatology

scarring alopecias

Scarring alopecias require early, effective treatment to stop progression and prevent further permanent hair loss. In an interview with Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with Skin of Color Update, Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, shares the latest research in the understanding of scarring alopecias and how that’s influencing the therapeutic pipeline. Dr. Taylor, the Bernett Johnson Endowed Professor of Dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, outlines current and future treatments, including JAK inhibitors, metformin, and vitamin D.

For more on hair loss, join us on Saturday, June 27, for Hair and Scalp Disorders: The Rx Pad and Beyond, a virtual, one-day conference. The program provides a full-spectrum perspective on hair and scalp management, from diagnosis to therapeutics to nutrition and lifestyle factors. Led by co-chairs Adam Friedman, MD, and Amy McMichael, MD, every session emphasizes practical tools, decision-making, and real-world implementation. Register today!

Feb 24
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Genetic Ancestry and Skin Disease: From the SOCU Poster Hall

By Medical Dermatology

genetic ancestry and skin disease

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.

Feb 10
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Vulvar Dermatoses: From the SOCU Poster Hall

By Uncategorized

vulvar dermatoses

Vulvar dermatoses are often underdiagnosed in women with skin of color. Cultural stigma, structural and educational barriers, and gaps in research and clinical training all play a role in limiting care. Patients may self-manage symptoms and only seek care when the disease becomes severe. Once they seek care, they may experience gaps in clinician understanding and recognition of the severity of the disease and its quality of life impacts. These clinical barriers may lead to undertreatment.

A poster presented at Skin of Color Update examined these challenges and highlighted the need for more equitable, culturally informed approaches to vulvar dermatoses. In this Next Steps in Derm commentary, lead author Grace Herrick shares the results of a comprehensive narrative review that identified challenges and barriers to care, including the experience of shame. She also outlines a paradigm shift in how dermatology clinicians should approach vulvar health in populations that have been historically marginalized.

Feb 04
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Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Patients with Skin of Color

By Sessions

hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is one of the most difficult-to-treat, chronic inflammatory diseases in dermatology, particularly for patients with skin of color. At Skin of Color Update, Tiffany Mayo, MD, led a case-based discussion highlighting earlier recognition, holistic management, and existing and emerging therapies for HS. She emphasized a simple, highly sensitive screening question to reduce diagnostic delays, which currently average 7–10 years, and reviewed the complex immunologic pathogenesis and systemic comorbidities associated with HS.

This session summary outlines practical takeaways, including the importance of reducing patient stigma by reframing misconceptions about causation, while setting realistic expectations — HS is a chronic, noninfectious disease requiring long-term management. Updated U.S. and European guidelines now support a structured, severity-based approach to treatment, incorporating both flare management and maintenance care. Dr. Mayo’s session emphasized holistic, patient-centered care and emerging therapies that can help reduce delays and improve outcomes.

Jan 23
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Recent Dermatology Drug Approvals: SOCU in the News

By Medical Dermatology

recent dermatology drug approvals

Dermatologists have an increasing number of FDA-approved drugs at their disposal, including therapeutics for patients with skin of color. In an article by the American Journal of Managed Care, Skin of Color Update Conference Co-Chair Andrew F. Alexis, MD, FAAD, gave an update on recent drug approvals in dermatology, including atopic dermatitis (AD), hidradenitis suppurativa, and plaque psoriasis.

The article, which covered Dr. Alexis’s Skin of Color Update session on recent drug approvals, highlighted the approval of tapinarof cream 1% for AD in patients age 2 and older. In the phase 3 ADORING trials, nearly half of treated patients achieved clear or almost clear skin by week 8, with durable, treatment-free intervals observed in longer-term data. Importantly, efficacy and safety were consistent across racial and ethnic subgroups.

Other newly approved topical therapies include roflumilast foam for plaque psoriasis, delgocitinib cream as the first steroid-free topical JAK inhibitor for chronic hand eczema in adults, and ruxolitinib cream for moderate AD in young children, all demonstrating statistically significant improvements versus vehicle and good tolerability, including in diverse patient populations.

The article also covered advances in biologics. Lebrikizumab, an IL-13 inhibitor for moderate-to-severe AD, showed durable skin clearance and improvements in hyperpigmentation. Nemolizumab, targeting the IL-31 receptor, improved skin clearance in AD when combined with topical therapies. For HS, bimekizumab demonstrated sustained efficacy through 48 weeks. Additionally, dupilumab received new approvals for chronic spontaneous urticaria and bullous pemphigoid, marking major progress for conditions with historically limited treatment options.

Dr. Alexis is quoted as saying it was an “extraordinary year” in dermatology. The new therapies are already influencing clinical practice and appearing in clinical guidelines, resulting in meaningful advances for conditions that disproportionately affect patients with skin of color.

Jan 07
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Alopecia Care for Head-Covering Women

By Medical Dermatology

head-covering women

For head-covering women, hair loss can have profound psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual consequences. In fact, emotional distress and fear of feeling exposed can lead these women to delay care. A poster presented at Skin of Color Update shares the experiences of head-covering women with alopecia and how dermatology should adapt to provide more respectful care.

The poster outlines how hair loss in women who wear head coverings is not simply a medical issue. Through qualitative studies, patient narratives, and dermatologic literature, the authors reveal what happens when a person’s hair loss is hidden from public view.  Head-covering women still experience grief, anxiety, and fear of stigma at the loss of hair. Barriers to care commonly include discomfort uncovering hair, lack of privacy, unease with male clinicians, and concerns about clinical photography.

The poster also outlines strategies that can improve care. These strategies include offering same-gender examiners, ensuring private exam spaces, clearly communicating each step of the visit, and respecting patient preferences around modesty and documentation. The poster authors contend that dermatology clinicians should acknowledge the religious and emotional significance of hair and adopt more culturally responsive practices. As such, dermatology clinicians can build trust and reduce delays in diagnosis, which in turn, lead to more compassionate, effective alopecia care.

For an interview with the poster’s lead author, read this Next Steps in Derm commentary.

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.

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