Skin of Color

COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT SERVICES FOR SKIN OF COLOR

Ethnic population groups (African Americans, Asians, Latinos, and other ethnicities) are often referred to as “People of Color” or having “Skin of Color.” These ethnic groups may have different skin types, tone and color which require different treatment modalities from fairer ethnicities. At Chameleon MedSpa, Dr. Albert Boyd, Medical Director, and his aesthetic care professionals have the education and experience in treating patients of various ethnicities with cosmetic enhancement procedures and services that are effective for different skin types.

With an increasing number of individuals with skin of color undergoing aesthetic procedures, it is important to select a cosmetic specialist that is knowledgeable and experienced in treating skin of color. Of primary concern is the need to avoid treatment-associated pigmentary alterations and keloid scarring, of which there is a greater risk in patients with skin of color.

Facials, chemical peels, skin care products, and laser and light therapies should be safe and effective for skin of color. At Chameleon MedSpa, we are experienced in treating women and men of various ethnicities with proven clinical modalities.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Boyd to discuss your cosmetic skin rejuvenating procedure. He will evaluate your skin type and tone and advise which non-surgical rejuvenation procedure will help you address unwanted hyperpigmentation and visible signs of aging, remove hair, stimulate hair growth, soften wrinkles and volumize your face, and address acne and acne scarring.

WHAT IS SKIN OF COLOR?

The Fitzpatrick skin type is used to classify skin types. The scale depends on the amount of melanin pigment in the skin which determines the color (white, brown, or black skin) and the effect of exposure to ultraviolet radiation (tanning). For example, paler or white skin burns easily and tans slowly and poorly. Darker skin burns less and tans more easily than fairer skin but is also more prone to develop post-inflammatory pigmentation problems.

The Fitzpatrick classification of skin types is as follows:

SKIN TYPE	TYPICAL FEATURES	TANNING ABILITY
I.	Pale white skin, blue/green eyes, blond/red hair	Always burns, does not tan
II.	Fair skin, blue eyes	Burns easily, tans poorly
III.	Darker white skin	Tans after initial burn
IV.	Light brown skin	Burns minimally, tans easily
V.	Brown skin	Rarely burns, tans darkly easily
VI.	Dark brown or black skin	Never burns, always tans darkly

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE COMMON SKIN CONDITIONS & HOW DOES TREATMENT VARY FOR SKIN OF COLOR?

Is your skin darker skin; e.g., Asian, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, or brown/black African skin? If so, the information below is important to read and understand before you undergo a cosmetic skin rejuvenation procedure.

Acne, Acne Scarring and Keloids

Acne is the most common skin condition for various ethnic groups followed by pigmentation problems. The treatment of acne vulgaris is a significant concern to individuals with skin of color wanting clear acne-free skin as hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin may occur where the acne breaks out.
Some over-the-counter treatments and skincare services may not be right for skin of color. Acne flair ups, hyperpigmentation, keloids, and scarring of the skin may occur. Some individuals are prone to excessive skin dryness and other irritations as a result of treatments that are not advantageous to skin of color.

Dr. Boyd will examine your skin and obtain a history of your acne flare-ups to prescribe a treatment that is safe and effective for skin of color. Dependent upon your acne and/or scarring, Fractional laser rejuvenation, Dermaplane, a customized HydraFacial® treatment for acne, or a variety of peels and facials may be a recommended treatment.

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the appearance of brown and dark spots on the skin. Melasma or pregnancy mask is another skin pigmentation condition as it produces brown or grayish-brown marks on the face. These conditions result from melanin pigment found in the skin causing some added concern for people with brown or darker skin. While melasma occurs in all skin types and people of various ethnic groups, it is most commonly seen in women with brown skin complexions.

Dr. Boyd will examine your pigmented skin and prescribe a treatment that will lighten and remove dark and brown spots that is safe and effective for skin of color. Dependent upon your hyperpigmentation, Fractional laser rejuvenation, microdermabrasion and/or customized HydraFacial® treatments and a variety of peels and facials may be recommended to address the spots along with an ongoing skin health maintenance program.

Chemical Peels and Facials

Dr. Boyd is often asked if patients with darker skins can undergo chemical peels for skin rejuvenation. The answer is yes, but with caution! As previously mentioned, one of the primary concerns for darker skin when undergoing any type of skin treatments, including peels, is avoiding post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The result of the peel in inexperienced hands is often more hyperpigmentation appearing, dark marks and scarring. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Boyd to learn which type of peel and/or facials will give you optimal results.

Laser Hair Removal

Safe and effective laser treatments are crucial, especially in darker-skinned individuals. Laser treatment in dark-skinned individuals carries a higher risk of complications like hyperpigmentation and burn. Dr. Boyd uses an advanced laser system that delivers a concentrated laser beam aimed directly at the hair follicles in the targeted treatment areas. This system is safe and effective for all skin colors.

As with all ethnicities, African American, Asians, Latin and Hispanic skin has its own set of issues and conditions that require treatments geared specifically to the skin type and tone for the best possible results. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Boyd for a full skin analysis, review of your goals and a discussion on which treatment/service option is best for you.