The Challenges of Dark Skin and How Your Dermatologist Can Help You

While Dr. Mitchell has the training and professional expertise in treating all skin types, she also knows what it means to have black skin and the unique challenges diagnosing and treating people with skin of color can sometimes present.

Did you know skin trauma is the most common cause hyperpigmentation?

Dr. Mitchell consistently discusses this fact with her patients.

If you have a darker skin tone and you have had a pimple or insect bite disappear or even eczema or psoriasis that has cleared, it has likely left behind a deeply pigmented spot. This is a result of the trauma triggering pigment cells, which is more likely an issue for people with darker skin tones. Studies show that people with darker skin tones have larger and more sensitive melanosomes (contain melanin ) in their melanocytes which when activated by trauma – make people more prone to developing secondary hyperpigmentation. 

You May Be More Prone to Other Skin Conditions

Did you know darker skin types are more prones to some skin conditions?

Because of genetics, if you have darker, melanin-rich skin, you are at a higher risk for certain skin conditions. Issues such as keloids, hypertrophic scars, benign growths, and ashiness are common to dark-toned skin.

Keloids are more common in African Americans and Asians due to fibroblasts and collagen cells in the skin being more reactive. When fibroblasts and healing cells become overactive and the healing process does not appropriately end, leading to the development of keloids.

Benign Growths or Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) are generally associated with dark-skinned individuals, just as freckles can be associated with fair-skinned individuals. This is simply due to genetics making you more prone.

Ashiness is more likely to be visible in those with darker skin tones. For example, black people have decreased ceramides and therefore may be more prone to ashiness, dry skin and medical conditions such as eczema. There are products to combat ashiness, and your dermatologist can provide recommendations.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Mitchell, call 419.871.3737.