Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color

In this Savvy Stories episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, 4 leaders in dermatology discuss a groundbreaking collaboration between the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and the National Medical Association (NMA) Dermatology Section aimed at expanding training and mentorship for future clinical investigators. The conversation is moderated by Leandra A. Barnes, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and physician-scientist at Stanford Health Care Dermatology Clinics in Redwood City and Emeryville, who also serves as co-chair of the SOCS Clinical Investigator Training Program. She is joined by her co-chair Tarannum Jaleel, MD, MHSc, assistant professor of dermatology at Duke University School of Medicine; Cheri Frey, MD, assistant professor at Howard University, residency program director, and current chair of the NMA dermatology section; and Hope Mitchell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, founder and CEO of Mitchell Dermatology, and past chair of the NMA dermatology section. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Savvy Conversations episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, 2 leading voices in vitiligo care—Iltefat Hamzavi, MD, FAAD, the co-founder and past president of the Global Vitiligo Foundation, and Tasneem F. Mohammad, MD, FAAD, staff physician in the Department of Dermatology at Henry Ford Health—engaged in a thoughtful discussion on the clinical, cultural, and psychosocial complexities of managing vitiligo across diverse patient populations. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Skin of Color Savvy News Update episode, the HCPLive team speaks with Nkem Ugonabo, MD, MPH—a New York City–based board-certified dermatologist in private practice and assistant professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine—about her professional journey, clinical passions, and leadership roles within the Skin of Color Society (SOCS). Ugonabo details her long-standing involvement with SOCS, starting as a dermatology resident drawn to the mentorship and trainee-focused programming. She also discusses her 2022 SOCS Research Award win and its significance in her career journey. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

This Clinical Episode of the Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, features a conversation between Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, the current president of SOCS, and esteemed dermatologists and global health leaders Esther Freeman, MD, PhD, and Karolyn Wanat, MD. Freeman is known for her work as Associate Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School, and Wanat as an Associate Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. Together, Elbuluk, Wanat, and Freeman explore the fast-growing field of global health dermatology, the work of the International Alliance for Global Health Dermatology (GLODERM), and an exciting new collaboration between GLODERM and SOCS. To learn more about the Skin of Color Society's (SOCS) mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest News Update episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by HCPLive and the Skin of Color Society (SOCS), board-certified dermatologist Regine J. Mathieu, MD, joins the HCPLive editorial team to discuss the importance of collaborative, culturally responsive care in dermatology—particularly for patients with melanin-rich skin. One of the central messages of the episode is the importance of collaboration across specialties. Mathieu describes working closely with rheumatologists, endocrinologists, allergists, psychiatrists, and primary care providers to treat conditions with systemic involvement. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this clinical episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, this week's host Rebecca Vasquez, MD, associate professor of dermatology at UT Southwestern, is joined by long-time colleague Adewole (Ade) Adamson, MD, MPP, assistant professor at Dell Medical School and expert in skin cancer epidemiology, to discuss UV safety and photo protection in patients with skin of color. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this special on-site episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, dermatologists Raj Chovatiya, MD, PhD, and Tiffany Mayo, MD, engage in a wide-ranging discussion on atopic dermatitis in skin of color, recorded live from the 2025 Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis (RAD) Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. Together, these 2 leading voices in dermatology examine diagnostic challenges, patient communication, and the future of topical therapy, offering both clinical insights and actionable strategies for improving care across diverse skin tones. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest News Update episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by HCPLive and the Skin of Color Society, board-certified dermatologist and 'The Gorgeous Plate' podcast host Aleta Simmons, MD, spoke with the HCPLive editorial team about the power of mentorship, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and her mission to bring a holistic, human-centered approach to dermatologic care. Dr. Simmons is known for her role as founder of Simmons Skin Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and creator of the educational platform Get the Skin-E. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives discussed in this episode, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest News Update episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, host DiAnne S. Davis, MD, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist practicing in Dallas, Texas, delves into the nuanced and evolving world of aesthetic dermatology in patients with melanin-rich skin. The podcast, hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, features a discussion by Davis on how best to approach cosmetic concerns in patients of color, such as hyperpigmentation and acne. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this special episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, host Tiffany Mayo, MD, leads a dynamic conversation on hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) in patients with diverse skin types, joined by dermatologist Steven Daveluy, MD, and patient advocate Jasmine Ivanna Espy. Together, they offer a unique triangulation of perspectives—clinician, researcher, and lived experience—that frames HS not only as a medical challenge but also a public health, quality-of-life, and equity issue. Key Timestamps: 00:07 Introductions 02:15 Diagnostic challenges with HS in skin of color 04:42 Laser hair removal for HS 07:01 Hesitancy in using laser hair removal 07:42 Patient experiences with HS 11:13 Physician blindspots with HS management 12:33 Patient experiences and stigmatization 16:53 Treatment advances for HS 19:00 Looking toward the future 25:37 Final thoughts To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this special news update edition of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, Vinod Nambudiri, MD, MBA, MPH, speaks with the HCPLive team on the floor of the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting to discuss a groundbreaking new initiative—the AAD Clinical Image Collection. Nambudiri, a medical dermatologist, an associate professor of dermatology and internal medicine at Harvard Medical School, and the program director for the Harvard Combined Dermatology Program, shares how this newly launched image repository aims to close longstanding gaps in dermatologic education and representation.

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, Crystal Aguh, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of the Ethnic Skin Program at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and John Harris, MD, the founding Director of the Vitiligo Clinic and Research Center, founding director of the Autoimmune Therapeutics Institute and professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology at UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester, together explored the importance of mentorship, visibility, and leadership among dermatologists and dermatology trainees of different backgrounds.

Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color—produced by HCPLive in collaboration with the Skin of Color Society—explores the latest research, clinical advancements, and culturally competent care practices in dermatology. Featuring Mojgan Hosseinipour, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical research investigator, this episode addresses key dermatological concerns among patients of color, misconceptions in skin health, and the importance of diversity in clinical research. Key Timestamps 00:00 Introductions 01:06 Misconceptions regarding alopecia 02:58 Recent research involvement 05:21 SOCS Symposium 06:07 Dr. Elbuluk interview 07:51 Dr. Aguh interview To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit the Skin of Color Society website: https://skinofcolorsociety.org/. 

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy, Dr. Victoria Barbosa and Dr. Janiene Luke dive into hair care myths, patient habits, and managing hair loss in patients with skin of color. They discuss misconceptions about alopecia, the impact of protective styling, and the importance of cultural humility in dermatology. From diagnostic strategies to treatment options like minoxidil, PRP, and JAK inhibitors, they provide expert insights to enhance patient care. Plus, they highlight the role of hairstylists in promoting healthy hair practices. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on improving hair loss outcomes in diverse patient populations. Chapters 00:05 - Introductions 01:52 - Misconceptions about hair loss 03:27 - Protective hairstyling 05:30 - Long-term commitment 09:20 - Common types of alopecia 11:01 - Importance of not assuming 13:30 - Use of dermoscopy 19:15 - Practices that exacerbate conditions 20:40 - Topical treatment comparisons 25:03 - Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA) 28:00 - Minoxidil practices 35:29 - Advice given to patients 39:17 - Final thoughts

In this Skin of Color Savvy News Update, Dr. Brittany Oliver highlights the vital role of mentorship in dermatology and the Skin of Color Society’s (SOCS) efforts to foster professional growth. She discusses key mentorship programs, reflects on influential mentors for Black History Month, and explores the intersection of dermatology and cardiovascular health during American Heart Month. Tune in to learn how mentorship, advocacy, and systemic change can drive diversity and improve patient care.

Welcome to Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color! In episode 2 of Skin of Color Savvy, host Nada Elbuluk, MD, chats with pigmentary disorder expert Michelle Rodrigues, MBBS, about diagnosing and managing conditions like melasma, vitiligo, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in diverse populations. They discuss key diagnostic tools, systemic associations, and emerging therapies, including non-hydroquinone agents, picosecond lasers, and JAK inhibitors. The episode highlights the importance of comprehensive photoprotection, culturally competent care, and personalized treatment strategies to improve outcomes and address unique challenges in skin of color dermatology. Video Version only on HCPLive: CLICK HERE Chapters 00:00 - Start 02:15 - Common Pigmentary Disorders 04:25 - Diagnostic Workup for Pigmentary Disorders 08:35 - Labs/Blood Work for Pigmentary Disorders 12:10 - Prevalence of Pigmentary Disorders 14:50 - Emerging Therapies for Pigmentary Disorders 19:45 - Conclusion Relevant disclosures for Elbuluk include Incyte. Rodrigues has no relevant disclosures to report.

In the inaugural Skin of Color Savvy: News Update, host Robert Brodell, MD, introduces the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and its mission to promote excellence in skin of color dermatology. Founded in 2004 by Susan C. Taylor, MD, SOCS is a global leader with members in over 30 countries. Through its pillars of research, education, mentorship, and advocacy, SOCS is committed to advancing dermatologic care, increasing diversity in the field, and addressing the unique needs of patients with skin of color. Brodell highlights several SOCS initiatives designed to support innovation and diversity in dermatology. These include the Sanofi and Regeneron Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Mid-Career Award, the Institutional Research Fellowship Grant for underrepresented minority physicians, and the Early Career Innovations Award, which fosters creative solutions in the field. SOCS also supports cutting-edge research through its annual Scientific Symposium, where experts present the latest findings in skin of color dermatology. The episode also introduces SOCS’s “My Best Winter Skin” campaign, launched to promote optimal winter skincare practices and raise awareness about skin health. This initiative includes an international awareness day, volunteer events, educational materials, and product donations sponsored by Clinique. Brodell encourages dermatologists to participate in outreach efforts within their communities to promote skin health and support SOCS’s broader mission. In the final update, Brodell shares details about TORPEDO (Training Opportunities and Residency Programs to Enhance Diversity and Outcomes), an initiative at the University of Mississippi to foster diversity in dermatology. Through mentoring, away rotations, and research opportunities, TORPEDO supports students from historically Black colleges and universities, addressing gaps in mentorship and training. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 01:40 - SOCS Overview 04:55 - SOCS Research Initiatives and Awards 10:00 - My Best Winter Skin campaign 12:55 - Training Opportunities and Residency Programs (TORPEDO) Program 15:30 - Conclusion/Brodell Contact Info

Welcome to Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, the official podcast of the Skin of Color Society, produced by HCPLive. Hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders, this podcast delves into the latest research, clinical insights, and culturally competent care practices in dermatology. From groundbreaking studies to practice-changing insights, we’re here to empower healthcare providers with expert perspectives on treating patients with skin of color. In this, the podcast’s inaugural episode, SOCS board members Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, vice chair for Diversity and Inclusion for the Department of Dermatology and professor of Clinical Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Shawn Kwatra, MD, associate professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, explore the topic of Itch in Skin of Color. Itch, or pruritus, in patients with skin of color presents unique challenges that are often overlooked in clinical practice. One significant issue is the lack of visible erythema, which can make it harder for clinicians to identify and assess the severity of the condition. During the conversation, Dr. Alexis emphasized that patients with darker skin tones often face delays in care due to these diagnostic challenges and cultural barriers that may prevent them from fully communicating the impact of their symptoms. He shared that targeted questions—such as asking whether itch disrupts sleep or daily focus—can be critical in uncovering the true burden of the condition. Kwatra highlights the need for a more tailored approach to treatment, noting that conventional therapies may not always address the specific needs of patients with darker skin tones. Topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and other standard treatments are often prescribed, but they may not fully resolve itch in certain cases, particularly when underlying conditions like atopic dermatitis or lichen planus are involved. Alexis also shared his experiences with integrating newer therapeutic options, such as topical JAK inhibitors, which have shown promise in reducing itch and inflammation in this population. Together, the conversation underscored the importance of cultural competence, thorough patient history-taking, and exploring innovative therapies to address the unique challenges of itch in skin of color. Chapters 00:00 - Start 02:00 - Itch in Skin of Color 02:30 - Kwatra’s Perspectives 05:30 - Alexis’s Perspectives 07:48 - Practice Pearls for Evaluating Itch 11:30 - Therapeutic Approaches 16:10 - Conclusion/Closing Relevant disclosures for Alexis include, Leo, Novartis, Menlo, Galderma, Pfizer, Sanofi-Regeneron, Dermavant, Unilever, Celgene, Beiersdorf, Valeant, L’Oreal, BMS, Menlo, Scientis, Bausch health , UCB, Foamix , Cassiopea, and Arcutis, among others. Relevant disclosures for Kwatra includeAbbvie, Amgen, Arcutis, Aslan Pharmaceuticals, Cara Therapeutics, Castle Biosciences, Celldex Therapeutics, Galderma, Incyte Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, Leo, Regeneron, and Sanofi, among others.