Protecting Skin of Color: Understanding Photodamage and Optimizing Sunscreen Strategies
Recent advances in photodermatology have expanded our understanding of how multiple wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum contribute to skin damage, aging, pigmentary disorders, and skin cancer risk. While ultraviolet (UV) radiation has traditionally been the primary focus of sun protection, visible light (VL), high-energy visible (HEV) light, infrared (IR) radiation, and even heat have …
Recent advances in photodermatology have expanded our understanding of how multiple wavelengths across the electromagnetic spectrum contribute to skin damage, aging, pigmentary disorders, and skin cancer risk. While ultraviolet (UV) radiation has traditionally been the primary focus of sun protection, visible light (VL), high-energy visible (HEV) light, infrared (IR) radiation, and even heat have … 
Colorism is a long-held belief that is common in certain cultures or ethnic groups where lighter skin is considered more desirable than darker skin. While modern mainstream culture is more accepting of brown and black skin tones, colorism persists, particularly in African-American, East Asian, Hispanic and Middle Eastern cultures. Transmitted from one generation to another, colorism is a reason wh … 
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to diagnosing dermatologic disease. At the most recent Skin of Color Update conference in New York City, co-chair Dr. Andrew Alexis gave a case-based presentation on dermatologic clues to systemic disease in patients with skin of color. The cases highlighted how subtle pigmentary and textural changes in the skin can be the first presenting sign of … 
Treating keloids requires a forward-thinking approach, according to Dr. Brian Berman, professor emeritus of dermatology and dermatologic surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Next Steps in Derm, in partnership with Skin of Color Update, interviewed Dr. Berman about the challenges associated with treating keloids given the high risk of recurrence. Hear Dr. Berman’s approa … 
Pediatric alopecia in children with kinky or curly hair presents unique diagnostic and management challenges. In a case-based session, Dr. Kenner-Bell reviewed common causes of hair loss in this population and highlighted the importance of early recognition, culturally sensitive counseling, and avoiding premature closure on traction alopecia as a diagnosis.
Case 1: Trichotillomania
Trichotilloma …