Top Five Skin Conditions for Darker Skin
As diverse as individuals are, so is their skin. Skin type, texture, color, and diseases are as personal as it gets. Those with darker skin face different challenges than those with lighter skin. However, it is worth noting that skincare can be tailored to each individual’s top concerns, and not all dermatology is created equal. Like any other medical field, licensed practitioners may focus on clients with darker skin or on a specific condition or disease. When seeking a dermatologist, it is always better to find one who specializes in your concerns. Cosmetic methods are quite different than medical treatments, so find one that aligns with your approach to skincare.
Skin Conditions for African Americans and darker-skinned patients can be more sensitive and not respond to the typical treatments. Hygiene products, serums, and makeup can be challenging for anyone with a skin condition. Everyone wants flawless, healthy skin. Understanding that some skin conditions affect certain skin tones is essential to finding the best dermatology care to address your concerns. The top five skin concerns for those with darker skin tones may not surprise you. If you are dealing with one of these, please do not hesitate to seek the professional help of a licensed dermatologist in your area.
Melasma Can Be Managed
The most common skin condition among people with darker skin is melasma. After the age of 20, women may begin to see melasma spots on their skin, and when these pigmented spots appear on the face, it can make people withdraw. Although women are the most prone, it can still occur in men and younger people, too!
Although melasma is not painful, it can be embarrassing or challenging to cover up. Melasma is highly treatable, and a professional dermatologist can prescribe medication to lighten these spots. There are effective creams and other oral medications that can give clients the relief they seek from melasma. Several cases of this skin condition may find that they want to explore microneedling and then continue with preventive treatments. Sunscreen is a daily skincare step that everyone can easily incorporate. Many makeup and moisturizer products now contain SPF, making it even easier to stay consistent.
Vitiligo Varies per Individual
Skin pigmentation is a skin condition that is not unique to one skin color or another, but on darker skin, it is more noticeable, meaning darker-skinned patients are the ones who suffer most. This is because skin cells produce varying levels of melanin, creating different skin tones. Large patches appear milky colored and affect men and women alike. Some skin conditions do affect women more than men, or vice versa, but vitiligo is not one of them. One approach to managing vitiligo is covering the spots, while others embrace it and aim to spread knowledge and dispel the stigma associated with the treatments. There is no right or wrong way to handle vitiligo. Still, those who feel inhibited by their appearance can find medical treatments, skin-lightening options, and even skin grafting to minimize the appearance of the condition.
Razor Bumps Can Hurt!
The medical term for razor bumps is folliculitis barbae, and these raised bumps can be painful but are also treatable. Shaving can cause ingrown hairs anywhere the skin is plucked, shaved, or waxed. African American males are the most prone to these bumps, and for some, this daunting task is a daily necessity for their careers. Ingrown hairs and pustule bumps can be painful and can get infected if picked at or scratched and not managed properly. An experienced dermatologist can identify irritations and prescribe antibiotic gels and oral medications to address these concerns. Laser treatments may be an alternative for those suffering from extreme symptoms after shaving.
DPN Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra
This skin condition is well known among those with darker skin tones because spots appear on the face, neck, back, and chest. Even though the spots are flat, they look like skin tags and can make someone feel self-conscious about their appearance. DPN is not painful and is not connected to severe health conditions, which is why they are often left untreated. However, if a person wanted them removed, there are safe in-office treatments available, and dermatology offices that specialize in treating DPN.
Darkening and Thickening of Skin
Common in the African American community, Acanthosis Nigricans is a skin condition that creates hyperpigmentation and hyperkeratosis. These symptoms appear under the arms or back of the neck. These conditions can cause patches to appear on the skin; however, they can also cause discomfort. Affected skin thickens, changes color, and may have an unpleasant smell, in addition to pain. Dermatologists skilled in treating darker skin tones can prescribe topical and oral medications for relief. When the affected skin begins to smell, it is usually due to bacterial growth, which can be treated with a medicated soap recommended by your dermatologist.
Dr. Sherrie Straughn’s dermatology practice, Buckhead Dermatology, in Atlanta, specializes in darker skin tones. She has years of experience helping her clients find the relief and results they want when suffering from any skin condition. Don’t let your skin’s appearance hold you back from living your best life, and contact her today for an appointment.