Dermatology in Black Skin
A clinically focused program on conditions with distinct presentations in Fitzpatrick phototypes IV–VI, including alopecias and hyperpigmentation, with culturally competent communication.
Needs & context
Patients with darker skin phototypes (Fitzpatrick IV–VI) are disproportionately affected by conditions such as central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, keloids and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, yet are underrepresented in dermatology training materials.
Learning objectives
Upon completion, the participant will be able to:
- Identify dermatological conditions with distinct presentations in phototypes V and VI compared with lighter skin.
- Differentiate the most prevalent alopecias in Afro-descendant patients using clinical and trichoscopic criteria.
- Apply a systematic differential-diagnosis approach to hyperpigmented lesions in darker skin.
- Select evidence-based therapeutic strategies adapted to biological and cultural context.
- Demonstrate culturally competent communication strategies in dermatological care.
Topics covered
- Structural and functional particularities of phototypes V and VI
- Prevalent alopecias: CCCA, traction alopecia, folliculitis decalvans
- Systematic differential diagnosis of hyperpigmented lesions
- Evidence-based therapeutic literature for darker skin
- Cultural considerations in dermatological care
- Digital atlas: online review of clinical images (phototypes V–VI)
- Online post-assessment (10 questions, 70% to complete) and participant evaluation
References
- Alexis AF, Sergay AB, Taylor SC. Common dermatologic conditions in skin of color. Cutis. 2007;80(5):387-394.
- Grayson C, Heath C. An approach to examining tightly coiled hair in race-discordant interactions. JAMA Dermatol. 2021;157(5):505-506.
- Lawson CN, Hollinger J, Sethi S, et al. Updates in skin & hair disorders in women of color. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2017;3(1 Suppl):S21-S37.
- Callender VD, McMichael AJ, Cohen GF. Medical and surgical therapies for alopecias in black women. Dermatol Ther. 2004;17(2):164-176.
- Taylor SC. Skin of color: biology, structure, function, and implications for dermatologic disease. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2002;46(2 Suppl):S41-S62.
Modality & credit. Delivered fully online/remotely. Upon completion of the post-assessment, participants receive a certificate of completion stating the estimated instructional hours. This certificate is not an accredited continuing-education credit — no ANCC, AMA, ACCME, Florida Board of Nursing or other state-board credit is offered or implied.
Scope. This course provides education in technique and clinical knowledge. Clinical application is subject to each participant's licensure, scope of practice, and state regulations.
Instructor disclosure. Leonardo Bianchini, MD (Brazil), PhD, RN — declares no relevant financial relationships with commercial interests related to the content of these educational activities. No commercial support was received for any course.