TLDR The document concludes that patients with skin of color need specialized dermatological care and education to manage unique skin conditions effectively.
The document from 2011 emphasizes the unique dermatological needs of patients with skin of color, highlighting the differences in melanin activity and distribution that contribute to a propensity for certain skin conditions such as dyschromias, keloids, and specific types of alopecia. It discusses the importance of tailored treatments to minimize the risk of pigment changes and scarring, and the need for increased education and screening, especially for skin cancers. The document reviews various treatments for pigmentary disorders, including hydroquinone, chemical peels, topical retinoids, and cosmeceuticals, and notes the effectiveness of combination therapies. It also addresses the management of conditions like pseudofolliculitis barbae, hirsutism, traction alopecia, and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, stressing the need for increased medical education and research. The review calls for advancements in treatment and increased awareness among both patients and clinicians to improve management of dermatologic conditions in skin of color populations.
85 citations
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October 2007 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Curly hair shape is due to uneven growth patterns in the hair follicle.
115 citations
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September 2005 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Different ethnic groups have unique hair growth patterns, with African hair growing slower and less dense, Asian hair growing fast but sparse, and Caucasian hair being densest; men are more likely to experience hair loss than women.
88 citations
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March 2004 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” 
55 citations
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October 2003 in “Dermatologic Clinics” Different hair care practices and conditions affect African American hair and scalp health, requiring specialized knowledge for treatment.
96 citations
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February 2002 in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” Pseudofolliculitis barbae is a chronic skin condition affecting mainly African American and Hispanic individuals, caused by shaving tightly curled hair, and managed by prevention and treatment but not curable.
129 citations
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June 1999 in “Archives of Dermatology” African Americans have less hair density than whites.
72 citations
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November 1997 in “Clinics in dermatology” Vitiligo is a skin condition causing white patches, likely due to an autoimmune issue.
107 citations
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September 1968 in “Archives of Dermatology” Using hot combs can cause permanent hair loss on the scalp's crown.
10 citations
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May 2015 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology” New treatments for skin and hair disorders in women of color address unique biological differences and include specific acne medications, sunscreens, skin lighteners, and hair care adjustments.
49 citations
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June 2009 in “Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery” The cosmetic industry should adapt to the varied beauty standards of ethnic groups and offer specialized treatments.
15 citations
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September 2017 in “Dermatologic Surgery” Chemical peels are effective and popular for treating men's skin issues, with some special considerations for their unique skin needs.
87 citations
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March 2000 in “American Journal of Clinical Dermatology” Alpha-hydroxy acids, like glycolic acid, safely improve skin issues and work on all skin types.
November 2025 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine” Topical tretinoin effectively treats acne and photoaging, with potential for other skin conditions, but more research is needed.
