Tag

skin of color update

Jul 23
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What’s New in Aesthetic Treatments for Skin of Color

By Sessions

aesthetic treatments for skin of color

More research and new indications are what’s new in aesthetic treatments for patients with skin of color, according to Dr. Michelle Henry, clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with Skin of Color Update, interviewed Dr. Henry, who shared her excitement over new data that shows the effectiveness of certain laser procedures in patients with skin of color. Learn about lasers for treating acne and new radiofrequency monopolar devices that have important updates. Find out about a combination device that can help in rejuvenation of the skin around the eyes. Plus hear about a new technology that Dr. Henry calls “precision microneedling.”

Further Reading

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

Pin-Based Fractional Radiofrequency: 2024 International Consensus Recommendations for Aesthetic Skin Indications

ABSTRACT

Background and Objective: Fractional radiofrequency was developed as a potentially lower-risk and downtime alternative to traditional fractional ablative and nonablative lasers for skin resurfacing. Pin-based FRF (pFRF) delivers radiofrequency heat in focal, high-energy density columns within intact skin, without microneedle insertion. The main objective of this publication was to get an expert consensus on best-in-practice protocols for treating common aesthetic indications for resurfacing using a novel pFRF device.

Methods: An international panel of 10 dermatologists and plastic and reconstructive surgeons from 6 countries and a variety of practice settings was assembled to develop updated consensus recommendations for using pFRF. A modified Delphi method included: a preliminary questionnaire, video conference roundtable discussion, individual review of initial data, a secondary questionnaire, and multiple rounds of email discussion until a group consensus was reached.

Results: The panel developed standardized pFRF protocols for the treatment of acne scars, enlarged pores, skin texture, rhytides, and striae. For each diagnosis, device parameters and techniques are outlined. General requirements for patient preparation, anesthesia, and post-treatment care are described. Special consideration was given to device settings for condition severity and Fitzpatrick skin type. These guidelines are meant to provide new practitioners with a starting point for safe and effective patient treatment.

Conclusions: pFRF without microneedles is a useful alternative to fractional laser technology and radiofrequency microneedling for resurfacing patients’ skin texture irregularities. Patients tolerate the procedure and recovery well. Here, protocols for the treatment of 5 common aesthetic skin complaints with a novel pFRF device are provided.

Treatment of Mild to Severe Acne Vulgaris With a 650-Microsecond 1064-nm Nd:YAG Laser

ABSTRACT

Background: Effective treatment of acne remains a challenge to dermatologists.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of a 650-microsecond, pulsed 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser therapy for mild to severe facial acne vulgaris.

Methods: Human subjects of Fitzpatrick skin types I to VI with mild, moderate, or severe acne enrolled in the prospective, single-center study. Subjects received 5 treatments at 2-week intervals with the 650-microsecond, 1064-nm, pulsed Nd:YAG laser. Follow-up visits were 30 days and 90 days after the final treatment. At each visit, subject global assessments, lesion counts, investigator’s global assessments (IGAs), and tolerability appraisals were performed.

Results: The median percent reduction in lesion count was 48.15% after 1 treatment and 83.72% at treatment 3 and remained at 86.67% at 90 days. Sixty percent of subjects noted improvement after treatment 1, and most subjects noticed improvement on or before treatment 3. Median IGA values decreased rapidly to reach a plateau of 1.0 (almost clear) at week 6 and remained there at the 30- and 90-day follow-up. Ninety percent of subjects were slightly to highly satisfied after 3 treatments, and 90% slightly to strongly agreed that their acne treatments improved their self-esteem after 4 treatments. Anesthesia or skin cooling were not used, and adverse events were not observed.

Conclusions: The 650-microsecond, pulsed 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser has been proven to deliver long-lasting clearance of mild to severe facial acne vulgaris with high subject satisfaction and without adverse effects on skin types I to VI

Did you enjoy this video interview? Find more here.

Jul 17
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Colorism and Social Media: From the SOCU Poster Hall

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colorism and social media

At the 2025 Skin of Color Update, a poster by lead author Sara Omari (William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine) highlighted a deeply pervasive issue: colorism, and how social media acts as its newest, most aggressive vector.

Unlike racism, which operates between different racial groups, colorism is skin tone-related discrimination that frequently occurs within the same racial or ethnic group, where lighter skin is systematically privileged and associated with beauty, status, and success. It is a deeply entrenched issue across African-American, East Asian, Hispanic, and Middle Eastern cultures.

In an insightful interview, Omari broke down how modern digital spaces are reinforcing age-old biases, with devastating consequences for young patients of color. Recognizing why a patient might be asking for aggressive pigment-altering treatments allows dermatology clinicians to intervene with empathy, education, and safe, evidence-based care.

Read the interview at Next Steps in Derm.

Jul 02
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Forgotten Conditions in Skin of Color: Dissecting Cellulitis, Acne Keloidalis Nuchae, and More

By Sessions

acne keloidalis nuchae

At the 2025 Skin of Color Update, Prince Adotama, MD, FAAD, started his lecture with a discussion on acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN), a chronic inflammatory condition that leads to fibrotic papules, plaques and potentially keloidal nodules and plaques. This occurs most commonly in African Americans with a reported prevalence up to 13.6%. The pathogenesis of AKN is poorly understood but is thought to be initiated by a mechanically induced folliculitis that becomes extensive enough to result in scar formation. Similarly to pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), trauma and mechanical irritation could lead to a primary cicatricial alopecia.

Dr. Adotama also highlighted the role of metabolic syndrome in patients with AKN, citing multiple studies demonstrating a strong association between AKN and metabolic syndrome. It is important that physicians are aware of this possible comorbidity, and similar studies have shown increased risk of hypertension and hypothyroidism in patients with AKN.

Treatment for AKN includes topical and/or oral antimicrobials/antibiotics, as well as topical retinoids, topical steroids, and steroid injections. Laser hair removal (LHR) using diode and Nd:YAG and Alexandrite lasers can be helpful in the early papular stages. Surgical excision is recommended for keloidal plaques that are greater than 3 cm.

Additionally, unlike PFB, patients with AKN can utilize higher potency topical steroids. Dr. Adotama discussed that two weeks on and two weeks off for 8 weeks of topical clobetasol can be used, followed by betamethasone valerate for 4 weeks. This regimen did not yield any side effects of skin atrophy and showed a significant decrease in symptoms at 12 weeks. For patients that can tolerate intralesional steroids, using a strength as high as 40 mg/mL can be used in some cases if there is a keloidal component.

Dr. Adotama focused on an improved injection technique for AKN, where the clinician takes 5-10 mg/mL of triamcinolone and injects 0.1 mL aliquots into the deep dermis in 1 cm intervals until the entire area of involvement is completely treated (in contrast to injecting each individual lesion). This technique was published in the Journal of Dermatologic Surgery in July 2023, where Dr. Adotama presented a case of a 24-year-old man with Fitzpatrick skin type VI who had a six-year history of AKN. The patient had no prior treatments and after one round of deep dermal injections with triamcinolone 5 mg/mL (total volume of 1.4 mL) with topical clindamycin, the patient demonstrated significant improvement.

Dr. Adotama also reviewed the use of topical diclofenac sodium gel in the treatment of both AKN and dissecting cellulitis of the scalp (DCS). Although the mechanism of diclofenac sodium gel for either of these conditions is not fully described, the authors hypothesized that the diclofenac-related effects might result in an overall decrease in the neutrophilic and mixed-lymphocytic infiltrate in hair follicles of patients with DCS and AKN. Four patients were followed (3 with DCS and 1 with AKN) in this study. All 3 patients with DCS showed substantial improvement with diclofenac gel monotherapy, with most lesions resolving within a 3-month treatment period. A similar response was observed in the patient with AKN after 1-month of therapy.

For patients with a papular component, use of the long-pulsed Nd:YAG laser in conjunction with topical steroids has shown promising results in the treatment of AKN. Dr. Adotama highlighted a decrease in global assessment score on the treated side as compared to the control side, which although not statistically significant, did show clinical improvement. In a sub analysis that excluded patients with nodules and plaques, there was a statistically significant change between the treatment and control side, highlighting the importance of early treatment at the papular stage.

In patients who have more extensive disease, AKN lesions can be removed via a horizontal ellipse that includes the posterior hairline. Dr. Adotama highlighted the importance of this technique, as two of the six patients had a nonelliptic excision of the posterior aspect of the scalp that spared the posterior hairline and resulted in an inferior cosmetic outcome. A review from 2025 of surgical complications from AKN removal highlighted the low rate of complications, with an approximate 19% incidence of AKN recurrence after excision, an 11% incidence of hypertrophic scarring, and 3% incidence of infection.

Overall, Dr. Adotama provided three main topical treatment recommendations for patients with AKN:

  1. Retinoid: Vary strength depending on skin sensitivity and hyperpigmentation
  2. Steroid: Choose a mid-high potency
  3. Antimicrobial or antibiotic: Typically, benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin combination, although patients may require an oral antibiotic

In addition to topical treatments, injections are often necessary and Dr. Adotama recommended using the deep dermis technique with 5-10 mg/mL concentration for the papular variant.

Dissecting Cellulitis (DCS)

DCS is a neutrophilic alopecia with IL-1 playing an important role. Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a comorbidity given its shared pathway, and one study found that more than half of patients with DCS presented with comorbidities related to follicular occlusion tetrad, with HS being the most frequent. Dr. Adotama also highlighted his study on long-term cardiovascular morbidity in DCS and found that DCS is associated with elevated risk of thrombotic and ischemic events similar to those reported in HS and moderate-to-severe psoriasis.

DCS most commonly presents in the second to third decade of life in African American men. It progresses through stages with the first stage marked by isolated nodules/abscesses and separated by normal skin without intercommunicating sinus tracts or scarring alopecia. As the disease progresses from stage II to III, it begins to demonstrate nodules and abscesses with intercommunicating sinus tracts, with the hallmark of stage III being scarring or permanent alopecia.

Treatment Options for Dissecting Cellulitis

Isotretinoin can be considered in refractory cases to topical therapy. Second-line therapy includes biologics, with TNF-alpha inhibitors having the highest efficacy (87% of patients demonstrated a sustained improvement). Additionally, dapsone can be used for stage II or III disease with or without isotretinoin. Surgery is also an option for patients and can be curative with 95% of patients in one study demonstrating sustained improvement.

Dr. Adotama discussed updated cases of patients who were trialed on a variety of biologics with improvement in DCS. One patient, a 26-year-old male with DCS, experienced significant clinical improvement following a short course of upadacitinib. The patient had tried and failed multiple other treatment modalities, however, following the initiation of upadacitinib, the patient had reduced pain and significant improvement in his quality of life. Apremilast was also utilized in a patient who had been recalcitrant to topical and systemic therapy (including isotretinoin, minocycline, Bactrim, and adalimumab). After 6 months of 30 mg twice-daily apremilast, the patient reported dramatic improvement in disease symptoms and reduction in flares with no notable side effects.

Dr. Adotama concluded his presentation with information on the Scarring Alopecia Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, supporting research, and providing education about cicatricial (scarring) alopecias. Its mission includes offering resources to patients, connecting them with specialists, and funding scientific studies aimed at understanding and treating scarring hair loss disorders.

References:

Adotama, P., Grullon, K., Ali, S., & Okoye, G. A. (2023). How we do it: our method for triamcinolone injections of acne keloidalis nuchae. Dermatologic Surgery, 49(7), 713-714.

Alexis, A., Heath, C. R., & Halder, R. M. (2014). Folliculitis keloidalis nuchae and pseudofolliculitis barbae: are prevention and effective treatment within reach?. Dermatologic clinics, 32(2), 183-191.

Badaoui, A., Reygagne, P., Cavelier‐Balloy, B., Pinquier, L., Deschamps, L., Crickx, B., & Descamps, V. (2016). Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp: a retrospective study of 51 patients and review of literature. British Journal of Dermatology, 174(2), 421-423.

Bernard, J. W., Reddy, S., & Flowers, R. H. (2023). The successful use of oral apremilast for a case of dissecting cellulitis. JAAD Case Reports, 39, 122-124.

Callender, V. D., Young, C. M., Haverstock, C. L., Carroll, C. L., & Feldman, S. R. (2005). An open label study of clobetasol propionate 0.05% and betamethasone valerate 0.12% foams in the treatment of mild to moderate acne keloidalis. Cutis, 75(6), 317-321.

Gamissans, M., Romaní, J., López‐Llunell, C., Riera‐Martí, N., & Sin, M. (2022). Dissecting cellulitis of the scalp: A review on clinical characteristics and management options in a series of 14 patients. Dermatologic Therapy, 35(8).

Hinson, C., Sink, M., Odobescu, A., Sammer, D. M., & Zhang, A. Y. (2025). Surgical management of acne keloidalis nuchae: A systematic review of outcomes and techniques. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, 104, 102-112.

Islam, Z., Toker, M., Gandhi, I. M., Sher, A., Campton, K., & Gandhi, I. (2024). Improvement of recalcitrant dissecting cellulitis of the scalp after a trial of upadacitinib. Cureus, 16(1).

Kridin, K., Solomon, A., Tzur-Bitan, D., Damiani, G., Comaneshter, D., & Cohen, A. D. (2020). Acne keloidalis nuchae and the metabolic syndrome: a population-based study. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 21(5), 733-739.

Lee, C. N., Chen, W., Hsu, C. K., Weng, T. T., Lee, J. Y. Y., & Yang, C. C. (2018). Dissecting folliculitis (dissecting cellulitis) of the scalp: a 66‐patient case series and proposal of classification. JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft, 16(10), 1219-1226.

Maranda, E. L., Simmons, B. J., Nguyen, A. H., Lim, V. M., & Keri, J. E. (2016). Treatment of acne keloidalis nuchae: a systematic review of the literature. Dermatology and therapy, 6(3), 363-378.

Melo, D. F., Ramos, P. M., Machado, C. J., Anzai, A., Blanco, A., Mulinari-Brenner, F., … & Doche, I. (2022). Dissecting cellulitis in women: a retrospective multicenter study with 17 patients. International journal of dermatology, 61(11), e427-e430.

Michelen-Gómez, E. A., Chiesa Fuxench, Z. C., Cancel-Artau, K. J., Guerrero, A., Ibrahim, O., Santaliz-Ruiz, L. E., 4th, & Colon-Fontanez, F. (2023). Treatment of acne keloidalis nuchae and dissecting cellulitis of the scalp with diclofenac sodium gel: a case series. JAAD case reports, 42, 113–116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdcr.2023.09.008

Ogunbiyi, A. (2016). Acne keloidalis nuchae: prevalence, impact, and management challenges. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 483-489.

Patel, D., Thakker, S., Olagun-Samuel, C., Wang, D., Mitchell, J., & Adotama, P. (2025). Long-term cardiovascular morbidity in dissecting cellulitis: A propensity-matched TrinetX cohort study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 93(6), 1614-1616.

Saka, B., Teclessou, J. N., Akakpo, S. A., Pessinaba, S., Gnossike, P., Mahamadou, G., … & Pitché, P. (2020). Acne keloidalis nuchae and hypertension in black subjects: a case–control study. BMC Research Notes, 13(1), 431.

Shah, G. K. (2005). Efficacy of diode laser for treating acne keloidalis nuchae. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, 71(1), 31.

Sperling, L. C., Homoky, C., Pratt, L., & Sau, P. (2000). Acne keloidalis is a form of primary scarring alopecia. Archives of dermatology, 136(4), 479-484.

Thomas, J., & Aguh, C. (2021). Approach to treatment of refractory dissecting cellulitis of the scalp: a systematic review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 32(2), 144-149.

Valdman-Grinshpoun, Y., Kridin, K., Schonmann, Y., & Cohen, A. D. (2021). Acne keloidalis nuchae and thyroid diseases: a population-based cohort study. International journal of dermatology, 60(4), 466–470. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.15331 

This summary was prepared by Dr. Courtney Hanna, dermatology resident, who attended the session. The content reflects the resident’s notes and interpretations, may contain errors, and is provided for educational purposes only. It does not constitute official faculty endorsement and should not replace original sources or clinical judgment.

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.

Jun 16
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Pigment-Specific Dermoscopy and AI: From the SOCU Poster Hall

By Medical Dermatology

pigment-specific dermoscopy and AI

The “diagnostic gap” remains a sobering reality in dermatology. In Black patients, 52% of melanomas are diagnosed at a late stage, compared to just 16% in White patients. In addition, traditional “classic” patterns often fail dermatologists when diagnosing conditions in Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI. A poster presented at Skin of Color Update explores how to bridge this gap through pigment-specific dermoscopy and AI.

The highlights:

  • The Bias Reality Check: “Off-the-shelf” AI tools can drop from 70% accuracy in lighter skin to as low as 17% accuracy for Fitzpatrick Type VI.
  • The Power of Integration: When AI is optimized for skin of color and paired with high-quality dermoscopy, diagnostic sensitivity can jump from 63.4% to 86.1%.
  • New Clinical Pearls: Learn why you must look for skin of color-specific features like eccrine pigmentation and central hyperpigmentation to improve your diagnostic yield.

AI isn’t here to replace your clinical nuance—it’s here to be the “second opinion” that helps catch the “can’t-miss” diagnoses.

Read a Next Steps in Derm interview with lead author Zahraa Rabeeah, MD, to learn how to enhance your practice today.

 

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.

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 29
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Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis in Patients With Skin of Color

By Medical Dermatology

psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in skin of color

Psoriasis doesn’t look the same on every skin tone—and recognizing that matters. Dr. Mona Shahriari, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine, encourages clinicians to broaden their psoriasis color palette to improve diagnosis and care of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in skin of color.

In a video interview with Next Steps in Derm, Dr. Shahriari shares:

  • Key clues for diagnosing psoriasis in skin of color
  • The clinical domains of psoriatic arthritis and how early recognition can reduce diagnostic and treatment delays
  • Research insights on scalp psoriasis
  • How pigmentary sequelae impact quality of life

This is a must-watch for clinicians committed to more equitable care of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in skin of color.

Be on the lookout for more video interviews with Skin of Color Update faculty that will be posted to the blog in the coming months.

Nov 20
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SOCU in the News: GLP-1 Agonists and Other Approaches

By Media Coverage

GLP-1 agonists

One of the most novel sessions at Skin of Color Update was a panel on the use of GLP-1 agonists and other multidisciplinary approaches in addressing the comorbidities associated with psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. The American Journal of Managed Care wrote an article on the session, which discussed the relationship between obesity and inflammatory skin conditions.

Jennifer Soung, MD, FAAD, pointed out that adipose tissue is an active endocrine organ that releases cytokines that increase inflammation in the body. As outlined in the article, Dr. Soung noted the connection between obesity and psoriatic arthritis is strong as research has shown body mass index is related to the risk of psoriatic arthritis. Dr. Soung also stated that obesity may decrease biologic response.

Karan Lal, DO, MS, FAAD, addressed the systemic factors at play in hidradenitis suppurativa, and that dermatologists often become de-facto primary care providers for these patients. He outlined his approach for an initial office visit for the condition.

Both panelists also covered how to approach patients about their weight, including the value of asking for permission. Dr. Soung noted terminology to use that is more patient friendly. Drs. Soung and Lal shared current research on the impact of GLP-1 agonists on reducing disease severity and comorbidities as well as a potential direct anti-inflammatory effect.

Both Drs. Soung and Lal expressed the value of an interdisciplinary team, and encouraged dermatologists, if uncomfortable in prescribing GLP-1 agonists, to build referral relationships with physicians who address weight management.

Our sister conference, the ODAC Dermatology Conference, is continuing the GLP-1 conversation with a panel discussion that addresses safety of these medications, their impact on comorbidities, as well as aesthetic considerations. Dr. Soung will participate in the panel along with Dr. Steven Daveluy, Dr. Sarah Jackson, and ODAC Conference Co-Chair Dr. Adam Friedman. ODAC takes place in Orlando, January 16-19. Register today!

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