Dermatology For Ethnic Skin

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Arranging prompt treatment is a great way to reduce treatment, can be reassuring and stops skin conditions interfering with busy lives.

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Our colour is little more than skin deep, an impression of melanin levels. Geographical origin can still bring subtle differences in tissues beneath the dermis, related organic compounds, hair, or follicle formation.

With around 1 in 8 Hertfordshire residents having non white skin, we need to ensure the right care is available to them. Through consultants who appreciate the nominal but important differences darker skin holds.

Irritation, or infection may appear different according to ethnicity. Eczema is an example, which is just as common on brown, or black skin, although the affected areas can be of a more subdued shade.

Conditions which appear across all ethnicities also have varying physical, or psychological effects. Vitiligo can occur on light skin but white patches on brown skin are far more visible and concerning.

There are also conditions with a higher prevalence according to ethnic origin, such as melasma, or hyperpigmentation. Healing mechanisms and times, or the way your skin reacts to certain treatments can vary.

The key is to understand the differences for each of us, to focus on providing medical care at a personal level.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Safe, effective treatment comes from accurate diagnosis. Appreciating a person’s ethnic origin will help, a reason to make sure you see a consultant dermatologist with experience and knowledge across populations.

The world has however seen population crossover for millenia and no two people’s skin are identical. Our genetic fingerprints, medical history, lifestyles and activities all contribute to us as individuals.

They should be discussed as part of diagnosis, alongside a careful physical examination and good use of technology. The latest digital microscopy and ultrasound techniques work equally well regardless of skin colour.

Modern treatments such as lasers are also effective, with a few changes in application. Most oral medication works across ethnic boundaries, or can be selected to suit an individual case, or condition which has an ethnic foundation.

Support At Our Clinic

As suggested above, dermatologists should regard ethnic skin variations in a dual way. They can make no difference, or all the difference, depending on the person we are treating and the condition they have.

Our consultants work with you to take your individual case forward, avoiding misunderstanding which can hamper diagnosis, or delay suitable treatment.

Whether we are treating a transient, or longer term condition, support is available for as long as you need. Alongside modern equipment, we focus on up to date communication and data systems, to bring continuity of care.

Support is there for a passing skin infection, acne, psoriasis treatment, or rare skin cancers. Our consultants see conditions across Hertfordshire and safely treat patients with a range of skin colours. Please talk to our friendly staff if we can help.