Insights in Skin of Color Patients With Atopic Dermatitis and the Role of Skincare in Improving Outcomes

A global perspective on the treatment and maintenance of mature skin using gentle cleansers and moisturizers

Xerosis is highly prevalent in the population aged over 50 years and substantially impacts quality of life due to the associated stigma, related pruritus, and potential sequelae. We propose that the term mature xerosis be used for subjects over 50 who suffer from age-related xerosis and replace senile xerosis to describe the phenomenon. The etiology of xerosis depends on genetic and environmental factors that affect stratum corneum hydration and skin barrier function. Skincare to restore barrier function is essential in xerosis treatment and is relevant for maintaining and preventing its progression. Many moisturizers and cleansers are available for xerosis; however, they are underutilized by patients with mature xerosis. A panel of eight global dermatologists reviewed the unique aspects of xerosis in mature skin and discussed the specific needs, relevance, and considerations for skincare selection to prevent, treat, and maintain skin with mature xerosis. The panel selected five statements based on evidence from a literature review and the panel's clinical experience to provide clinical considerations and recommendations for dermatologists and other healthcare providers treating patients with mature xerosis. Increased recognition of the burden of xerosis in mature skin is warranted. Gentle cleansers and barrier-restoring ceramide-containing moisturizers are essential to xerosis management, reducing signs and symptoms of xerosis, including associated pruritus.

Dermatology in black skin

The vast majority of publications in dermatology refer to lightly pigmented skin, with few addressing the peculiarities of black skin. In addition there is no consensus on what it means to be black in different regions of the world. The lack of knowledge on the subject makes it difficult to recognize and manage dermatoses in this type of skin. This article aims to review the literature on intrinsic characteristics, as well as epidemiological and clinical aspects of the cutaneous manifestations of different dermatoses in black skin. It was found that there are sometimes striking differences, in the structural, biological, and functional aspects when comparing lightly pigmented and black skin. There are also physiological changes that need to be recognized to avoid unnecessary interventions. Some dermatoses have a higher incidence in black skin, such as acne, eczema, dyschromia and dermatophytosis. On the other hand, several dermatoses are more specific to black skin, such as pseudofolliculitis barbae, keloid, dermatosis papulosa nigra, ulcers caused by sickle-cell anemia, dactylolysis spontanea, confluent and reticulated papillomatosis of Gougerot and Carteaud, and some diseases of the hair and scalp (including fragile and brittle hair, traction alopecia, folliculitis keloidalis nuchae, folliculitis dissecans and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia). A spectrum of peculiar aspects of specific dermatoses, including sarcoidosis, lichen planus (with emphasis on the pigmentosus variant), psoriasis, lupus erythematosus, vitiligo, syphilis, pityriasis versicolor, and neoplasms are highlighted. In the latter, characteristics of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are compared, in addition to highlighting unusual aspects of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, endemic Kaposi sarcoma, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.

Dermatologic conditions in skin of color compared to white patients: similarities, differences, and special considerations

The US population is becoming increasingly diverse, yet patients of color remain underrepresented in dermatology. The lack of diverse images in dermatologic learning materials can lead to discomfort in treating patients of color, delayed, and missed diagnoses. In this review, we compare and contrast the clinical presentation, management, and special considerations of common skin conditions between patients of color and white patients as well as provide a visual representation of these differences.

Atopic Dermatitis: Diagnosis, Disparity, and Management in Children of Color

Atopic dermatitis (AD), sometimes referred to as eczema, is the most common chronic skin condition in children. Children of color have a higher reported prevalence of AD compared with their White counterparts. The purpose of this article is to discuss the differences of AD in skin of color (SOC), including clinical findings and management, with an emphasis on early recognition to avoid more severe, persistent disease. School nurses are on the frontline for these students with their ability to guide families and help support students with AD in the school setting.