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AMM 110: Treating Skin of Color Unique Approaches
June 16, 2024
This episode delves into an article from the Skin of Color Society, exploring the unique considerations in treating both medical and cosmetic facial concerns in patients with skin of color (SOC). Listeners will learn about the prevalence of conditions like acne and rosacea in different ethnicities, and the crucial strategies for managing issues such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), hyperpigmentation, and aesthetic enhancement in SOC patients. The discussion covers effective treatment plans, the importance of sun protection, and procedural treatments like chemical peels and microneedling, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to achieve the best outcomes.
Quick Takes
- Acne prevalence in SOC patients differs across ethnicities: 37% in Blacks, 32% in Hispanics, 30% in Asians, 24% in Whites, and 23% in Continental Indians.
- Acne often leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in SOC patients, emphasizing the need for early and aggressive treatment.
- Clinicians should address acne and PIH with minimal skin irritation, create a maintenance plan to prevent future breakouts, and adjust regimens based on skin tolerability.
Episode Transcript
Happy June 15th, everyone! Today, let’s dive into an interesting article from the Skin of Color Society on treating medical and cosmetic facial concerns in patients with skin of color (SOC).
When treating acne in SOC patients, it’s critical to understand their unique skin nuances. A study involving cities like Los Angeles, London, Akita, and Rome showed that acne prevalence differs across ethnicities: 37% in Blacks, 32% in Hispanics, 30% in Asians, 24% in Whites, and 23% in Continental Indians. Acne often leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in SOC patients, making early and aggressive treatment vital.
For effective management, clinicians should:
1. Address both acne and PIH with minimal skin irritation.
2. Create a maintenance plan to prevent future breakouts.
3. Adjust regimens for skin tolerability—using gentle skincare and gradually introducing retinoids.
Regarding rosacea, though common in lighter skin types, it does affect SOC as well. Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey show that 4% of rosacea patients in the U.S. are of African, Latino, or Asian descent. Treatment mirrors that for lighter skin types: gentle skincare, sun protection, and topical or oral medications. Lasers and intense pulsed light are also potential options.
Hyperpigmentation is another major concern. In one survey, 86% of SOC women cited hyperpigmentation as a top issue. Treatment focuses on sun protection and topicals like hydroquinone, retinoids, and azelaic acid. For severe cases, procedural treatments such as chemical peels and microneedling are considered.
Patients with SOC might also seek aesthetic enhancements. From fillers for facial contouring to treatments addressing dynamic wrinkles with botulinum toxin type A, clinicians must account for SOC patients’ unique facial structures and aging processes.
Today’s article underscores the importance of tailored treatments for SOC patients, ensuring we consider their specific needs for optimal outcomes. Thanks for tuning in!
