Skin Of Color

Conditions Affecting Skin of Color

The team of providers at Integrated Dermatology of Tidewater diagnoses and treats all patients, but are keenly aware that there are many skin diseases which more often affect patients with skin of color.

Browse through our list of skin diseases which impact patients with skin of color and then call our office to schedule an appointment to discuss your questions and concerns.

What is skin of color?

Melanin is a pigment that determines the color of your skin. The amount and type of melanin in your skin determines the color.

Skin of color means pigmented skin. People with black or dark skin have high amounts of eumelanin and low amounts of pheomelanin. 

Though skin conditions affect millions of people with varying skin tones, people with skin of color are more susceptible to certain skin conditions. They also tend to experience more severe and frequent symptoms. 

People with skin of color come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. This includes African Americans, Latinos, Hispanics, Asians, Native Americans, Native Indians, and Pacific Islanders. 

What are dermatology issues in people with skin of color?

People with skin of color can develop any type of skin condition. However, some of the most common dermatology issues in people with skin of color include:

• Atopic dermatitis
• Acne vulgaris
• Acne keloidalis nuchae
• Acanthosis nigricans
• Pseudofolliculitis barbae
• Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPNs)
• Cutaneous sarcoidosis
• Cutaneous lupus
• Pityriasis alba
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Melasma
• Pigmentation disturbances
• Vitiligo
• Trichorrhexis nodosa
  
  

At Integrated Dermatology of Tidewater, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of common dermatology issues in people with skin of color.

They also provide individualized care to address cosmetic concerns, such as aging skin and hair loss. 

What happens during a skin of color consultation?

When you come in for a consultation at Integrated Dermatology of Tidewater, you can expect a comprehensive and patient-focused exam.

During your evaluation, you'll answer detailed questions about your dermatology concerns, personal medical history, and family history.

Then, we'll examine your skin and may request additional testing to confirm or rule out a diagnosis, such as blood work or a biopsy. 

How are dermatology conditions in skin of color treated?

We'll develop a personalized treatment plan for your dermatology condition based on your diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and medical history. Your treatment plan may include:

• Avoiding lotions, detergents, or soaps that irritate your condition
• Daily use of sunscreen
• Disease-specific prescription medication (oral or topical)
• Light therapy
• Laser treatment
• Peels
• Dermal fillers
• Microneedling

Your provider at Integrated Dermatology of Tidewater schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your skin condition and change your treatment plan as needed. 

Skin of color requires specialized dermatology care. For patient-centric care, call Integrated Dermatology of Tidewater, or request an appointment online today.

If you have questions or concerns about your skin, call our office at (757) 461-1033 Opt. 1 to schedule an appointment.