Skin Care Shouldn’t Be Colorblind
In medical school, doctors are taught to treat everyone the same way — to be “colorblind.” While that works in some areas of medicine, dermatology is different. Here, skin color isn’t something we can ignore. In fact, it’s one of the most important things to consider when diagnosing and treating skin conditions.
How skin conditions can look different on different skin tones
Skin problems don’t always show up the same way across all skin colors. Take rashes, for example. On lighter skin, an allergic reaction might look pink or bright red. But on darker skin, that same reaction might look purple. This difference can be critical, sometimes even life-saving when doctors are trying to identify rare conditions.
Disorders that affect pigmentation, like vitiligo, also tend to be more noticeable on darker skin. Vitiligo causes white patches where pigment cells are lost. While it can affect people of any skin tone, the contrast is far more visible on deeper complexions. It’s also worth noting that not every light patch is vitiligo eczema and other conditions can appear as lighter spots, too.
Another common issue is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) dark marks that remain after acne, psoriasis, or another inflammatory condition heals. PIH can take months (sometimes years) to fade, which is why prevention and early treatment are so important. Protecting the skin from sun exposure also helps reduce long-term discoloration.
And while less common, people with darker skin can still develop skin cancers such as melanoma. In these cases, melanoma often appears on the palms, soles, or under the nails. Any sore that doesn’t heal, unusual growth, or dark spot that seems to be changing is worth bringing to a doctor’s attention.
Why patients value dermatologists who understand their needs
Research shows that Black patients often feel more comfortable and satisfied when they see dermatologists who truly understand skin of color. Sometimes this means visiting a dedicated “skin of color” clinic, or sometimes it’s simply finding a doctor who listens and “gets it.”
It’s not just about skin, either. Hair plays a role, too. For example, tightly curled hair is more prone to ingrown hairs when shaved very close. This can lead to painful bumps, inflammation, and even scarring. A dermatologist familiar with these issues might recommend trimming instead of shaving down to the skin, or prescribing treatments to calm inflammation.
While wrinkles may be the main focus for some, others may be more bothered by dark spots or benign growths that develop with age. A dermatologist who is aware of these subtleties might suggest therapies that seem both successful and appropriate for the patient's culture.
Fortunately, awareness is rising. More clinics that specialize in treating skin of color are opening, and the majority of dermatology school programs now cover treatment of a variety of skin tones. In addition to providing knowledge, these clinics foster environments where patients are acknowledged and understood.
Additionally, keep in mind that communication between you and your doctor should always be reciprocal. Speak up if you think your dermatologist does not fully get what you are going through. Sharing your perspective helps them provide better care, and helps ensure your skin in all its uniqueness gets the attention it deserves.
Bottom line: Skin care should never be colorblind. Taking skin tone into account isn’t about treating people differently, it's about treating them better.
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