15/09/2025
Why is dermatology for skin of colour important?
When I started my dermatology career in 2011, one thing was clear: the textbooks, case studies, and training materials focused almost entirely on white skin. There was barely any representation of how common skin and hair conditions present in Black or brown skin, and that gap concerned me deeply.
Because the truth is, skin of colour behaves differently. Eczema, acne, and psoriasis don’t always look red or inflamed. Some conditions, like melasma, keloids, dermatosis papulosa nigra, or traction alopecia, are more common in people of colour and require a different diagnostic and treatment approach. Even cultural habits can influence skin issues, like prayer marks or skin problems related to bleaching.
These aren’t minor differences. They affect care, diagnosis, and outcomes. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to champion better education, representation, and treatment for skin of colour here in the UK.
Everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and cared for, and that starts with dermatology that reflects all of us.