WHAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT SKIN OF COLOR
Photo Credit: beautyinthebag.com
After attending a very informative presentation with a panel of 8 prominent dermatologists and skin researchers from all over the country by the Skin of Color Society at the London New York, I learned a whole lot more about skin of color.
Some of their comments may surprise you too. For example, did you know that psoriasis scales may look purple or brown on darker skin types? Or that melasma is hereditary and more prevalent in Hispanics and other skin of color? Or that laser resurfacing can be performed safely on skin of color if you go to an expert who chooses the right device and the best settings?
Dr. Seemal Desai, Founder & Medical Director, Innovative Dermatology, PA, Plano, T
MEET DR. MARITZA PEREZ, NEW YORK DERMATOLOGIST
Art, beauty, happiness. These are the objectives that board-certified dermatologist Maritza Perez, MD, FAAD aims for as a dermatologist in terms of results for her patients, and for her own sense of satisfaction. As a Mohs Micrographic surgeon, she works to rid patients of skin cancers while achieving the best cosmetic results possible. Aside from Mohs surgery, Dr. Perez specializes in laser and cosmetic surgery. She is also the Associate Professor of Clinical Dermatology at Columbia University, in New York City, and an active member in numerous dermatology organizations, such as the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, American Society for Laser in Surgery and Medicine, American A
PROTECTING SKIN OF COLOR
From fairest pale to luscious brown, all skin types need to take care in the sun. Skin cancer can strike anyone, regardless of color, and can occur even with skin types rich in melanin. If you have lighter skin that burns easily, you have a higher risk of developing skin cancers, but contrary to popular belief, deep pigmentation does not make you immune.
With all skin tones, the key to prevention is protection, which means avoiding sun exposure during peak hours, wearing protective clothing and, of course, using broad spectrum sunscreens and sunblocks.
“Skin cancer prevention is the same for all skin types – sun protection, sun protection, sun protection,” said Washington, D.C. D
