Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color

In this new episode of Skin of Color Savvy, the official podcast of the Skin of Color Society (SOCS), produced in partnership with HCPLive, Noreen Galaria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with more than 2 decades of experience, shared insights from her clinical practice and research interests, with a focus on holistic dermatologic care and considerations for patients with skin of color.To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this new episode of the Skin of Color Savvy podcast, hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders and produced by HCPLive, Vinod Nambudiri, MD, MBA, MPH, a medical dermatologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and leader in dermatology education, spoke on-site at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Denver. Nambudiri highlights ongoing efforts to improve representation in clinical training resources, alongside emerging insights on artificial intelligence (AI) and physician well-being.To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders and produced by HCPLive, Seemal Desai, MD, past president of SOCS, is joined by Pearl Grimes, MD, a globally recognized expert in vitiligo and pigmentary disorders and founder of the Vitiligo and Pigmentation Institute of Southern California.Together, they engage in a nuanced discussion on colorism, its historical roots, and its intersection with the clinical management of pigmentary disorders.View more episodes: https://www.hcplive.com/podcasts/socs-podcast

In this new episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, a podcast produced by HCPLive and hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders, Nicole Negbenebor, MD, clinical assistant professor of dermatology and director of the Skin of Color Clinic at the University of Iowa, discusses her professional journey in dermatology, highlighting her clinical interests, research advocacy, and commitment to improving care for diverse patient populations.To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest Skin of Color Savvy podcast episode, hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders and produced by HCPLive, Mona Shahriari, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine and host of The Medical Sisterhood, led a forward-looking conversation on advancing skin health equity. She spoke alongside Susan Taylor, MD, the Bernett Johnson Endowed Professor of Dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, board-certified dermatologist and Professor at the USC Keck School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology. Framing 2026 as a potential “pivotal year,” Shahriari guided a discussion that moved beyond awareness of disparities toward measurable action.To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this new episode of Skin of Color Savvy, board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetics and laser dermatology for Pinnacle Dermatology, Abrahem Kazemi, MD, reflects on the personal and professional experiences that have shaped his approach to dermatologic care, particularly for underserved patient populations.Kazemi also spoke about his involvement with the Skin of Color Society, particularly on its Media and Communications Subcommittee, emphasizing the importance of elevating evidence-based messaging as demographic shifts increase the relevance of skin of color expertise nationwide. He concluded with a message to colleagues and trainees: resilience, self-belief, and perseverance are essential, as the impact of dermatologic care—especially for underserved communities—extends far beyond the clinic.To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this new ‘Savvy Stories’ episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, the podcast revisits highlights from the 3 most viewed episodes of 2025, bringing together expert insights on inflammatory skin disease, pigmentary disorders, and diversity in dermatologic research.Featuring conversations with Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders, Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH; Shawn Kwatra, MD; Crystal Aguh, MD; John Harris, MD, PhD; Nada Elbuluk, MD; and Michelle Rodrigues, MBBS, the episode underscores the breadth of clinical, scientific, and equity-focused discussions that resonated most with audiences throughout the year.To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

The Skin of Color Savvy podcast, presented by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders and produced by HCPLive, presents a special year-end highlights reel to close out 2025, featuring moments from every 'Savvy Conversations' episode released throughout 2025. The compilation reflects the breadth of topics, voices, and lived experiences that shaped the podcast’s inaugural year, underscoring its commitment to advancing clinically rigorous, culturally responsive dermatologic care for patients of color.Together, the year-end reel captures the essence of Skin of Color Savvy: a platform grounded in evidence-based medicine, cultural humility, and inclusive dialogue. As the podcast looks ahead to the coming year, the highlights serve as a reminder of the progress made and the work still needed to improve dermatologic care for all patients.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit the Skin of Color Society website.

In this 'Savvy Conversations' episode of Skin of Color Savvy, hosted by Skin of Color Society leaders and produced by HCPLive, Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, an internationally recognized expert in skin of color, board-certified dermatologist at Miami Design District Dermatology and Aesthetics, and director of Ethnic Skin Care at the University of Miami Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, speaks with Aderonke Obayomi, MD, MPH, a board-certified dermatologist at Mount Sinai Health System, for an in-depth discussion on winter skin concerns and seasonal dermatologic challenges affecting patients of color.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Savvy Stories episode of Skin of Color Savvy, produced by HCPLive in collaboration with the Skin of Color Society (SOCS), Corey Hartman, MD, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama, reflected on his participation in SOCS’s 8th Annual Virtual Media Day. The 2025 program, an established newsroom resource since 2015, continued its mission of “setting the record straight in the age of misinformation,” bringing clinical clarity to topics affecting patients with richly pigmented skin.Against this evidence-driven backdrop, Hartman offers nuanced insights into sunscreen misconceptions, skin cancer awareness gaps, social media trends, adolescent skin-care culture, and emerging regenerative technologies.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Savvy Conversations episode of Skin of Color Savvy, hosted by Skin of Color Savvy (SOCS) leaders and produced by HCPLive, Amy McMichael, MD, a professor in the Department of Dermatology at Wake Forest School of Medicine, sits down with guest dermatologist Kayla Taylor, MD, of Atrium Health Dermatology for an in-depth discussion on scarring alopecia, hair loss differentials, and hair-care–related challenges facing patients with skin of color. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Savvy Stories episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, recorded on-site at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress in Paris, HCPLive spoke with Michelle Rodrigues, MBBS, dermatologist, founder and director of the Pigment and Skin of Colour Centre at Chroma Dermatology in Australia, and associate professor at the University of Melbourne.In this podcast by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and hosted by HCPLive, Rodrigues discusses her presentation at the SOCS symposium, “Unmasking Facial Hyperpigmentation in Richly Pigmented Skin Types,” offering practical insights for clinicians managing these complex and often misunderstood disorders.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, dermatologists Crystal Aguh, MD, and Lauren Krueger, MD, explored the biological, cultural, and clinical considerations behind curly and coily hair patterns. This podcast by Skin of Color Society (SOCS), and produced by HCPLive, featured a discussion underscoring the ways in which textured hair care represents a critical—and often overlooked—component of dermatologic expertise.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Savvy Stories episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, 4 leaders in dermatology discuss a groundbreaking collaboration between the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and the National Medical Association (NMA) Dermatology Section aimed at expanding training and mentorship for future clinical investigators. The conversation is moderated by Leandra A. Barnes, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and physician-scientist at Stanford Health Care Dermatology Clinics in Redwood City and Emeryville, who also serves as co-chair of the SOCS Clinical Investigator Training Program.She is joined by her co-chair Tarannum Jaleel, MD, MHSc, assistant professor of dermatology at Duke University School of Medicine; Cheri Frey, MD, assistant professor at Howard University, residency program director, and current chair of the NMA dermatology section; and Hope Mitchell, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, founder and CEO of Mitchell Dermatology, and past chair of the NMA dermatology section.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Savvy Conversations episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, 2 leading voices in vitiligo care—Iltefat Hamzavi, MD, FAAD, the co-founder and past president of the Global Vitiligo Foundation, and Tasneem F. Mohammad, MD, FAAD, staff physician in the Department of Dermatology at Henry Ford Health—engaged in a thoughtful discussion on the clinical, cultural, and psychosocial complexities of managing vitiligo across diverse patient populations.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this Skin of Color Savvy News Update episode, the HCPLive team speaks with Nkem Ugonabo, MD, MPH—a New York City–based board-certified dermatologist in private practice and assistant professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine—about her professional journey, clinical passions, and leadership roles within the Skin of Color Society (SOCS).Ugonabo details her long-standing involvement with SOCS, starting as a dermatology resident drawn to the mentorship and trainee-focused programming. She also discusses her 2022 SOCS Research Award win and its significance in her career journey.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

This Clinical Episode of the Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, features a conversation between Nada Elbuluk, MD, MSc, the current president of SOCS, and esteemed dermatologists and global health leaders Esther Freeman, MD, PhD, and Karolyn Wanat, MD. Freeman is known for her work as Associate Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School, and Wanat as an Associate Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee.Together, Elbuluk, Wanat, and Freeman explore the fast-growing field of global health dermatology, the work of the International Alliance for Global Health Dermatology (GLODERM), and an exciting new collaboration between GLODERM and SOCS.To learn more about the Skin of Color Society's (SOCS) mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest News Update episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by HCPLive and the Skin of Color Society (SOCS), board-certified dermatologist Regine J. Mathieu, MD, joins the HCPLive editorial team to discuss the importance of collaborative, culturally responsive care in dermatology—particularly for patients with melanin-rich skin.One of the central messages of the episode is the importance of collaboration across specialties. Mathieu describes working closely with rheumatologists, endocrinologists, allergists, psychiatrists, and primary care providers to treat conditions with systemic involvement. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this clinical episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, this week's host Rebecca Vasquez, MD, associate professor of dermatology at UT Southwestern, is joined by long-time colleague Adewole (Ade) Adamson, MD, MPP, assistant professor at Dell Medical School and expert in skin cancer epidemiology, to discuss UV safety and photo protection in patients with skin of color.To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this special on-site episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, by the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, dermatologists Raj Chovatiya, MD, PhD, and Tiffany Mayo, MD, engage in a wide-ranging discussion on atopic dermatitis in skin of color, recorded live from the 2025 Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis (RAD) Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. Together, these 2 leading voices in dermatology examine diagnostic challenges, patient communication, and the future of topical therapy, offering both clinical insights and actionable strategies for improving care across diverse skin tones. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest News Update episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, produced by HCPLive and the Skin of Color Society, board-certified dermatologist and 'The Gorgeous Plate' podcast host Aleta Simmons, MD, spoke with the HCPLive editorial team about the power of mentorship, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and her mission to bring a holistic, human-centered approach to dermatologic care.Dr. Simmons is known for her role as founder of Simmons Skin Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and creator of the educational platform Get the Skin-E. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives discussed in this episode, visit Skin of Color Society.

In the latest News Update episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, host DiAnne S. Davis, MD, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist practicing in Dallas, Texas, delves into the nuanced and evolving world of aesthetic dermatology in patients with melanin-rich skin. The podcast, hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and HCPLive, features a discussion by Davis on how best to approach cosmetic concerns in patients of color, such as hyperpigmentation and acne. To learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this special episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, host Tiffany Mayo, MD, leads a dynamic conversation on hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) in patients with diverse skin types, joined by dermatologist Steven Daveluy, MD, and patient advocate Jasmine Ivanna Espy.Together, they offer a unique triangulation of perspectives—clinician, researcher, and lived experience—that frames HS not only as a medical challenge but also a public health, quality-of-life, and equity issue.Key Timestamps:00:07 Introductions02:15 Diagnostic challenges with HS in skin of color04:42 Laser hair removal for HS07:01 Hesitancy in using laser hair removal07:42 Patient experiences with HS11:13 Physician blindspots with HS management12:33 Patient experiences and stigmatization16:53 Treatment advances for HS19:00 Looking toward the future25:37 Final thoughtsTo learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

In this special news update edition of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, Vinod Nambudiri, MD, MBA, MPH, speaks with the HCPLive team on the floor of the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting to discuss a groundbreaking new initiative—the AAD Clinical Image Collection. Nambudiri, a medical dermatologist, an associate professor of dermatology and internal medicine at Harvard Medical School, and the program director for the Harvard Combined Dermatology Program, shares how this newly launched image repository aims to close longstanding gaps in dermatologic education and representation.

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, Crystal Aguh, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of the Ethnic Skin Program at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and John Harris, MD, the founding Director of the Vitiligo Clinic and Research Center, founding director of the Autoimmune Therapeutics Institute and professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology at UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester, together explored the importance of mentorship, visibility, and leadership among dermatologists and dermatology trainees of different backgrounds.

Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color—produced by HCPLive in collaboration with the Skin of Color Society—explores the latest research, clinical advancements, and culturally competent care practices in dermatology. Featuring Mojgan Hosseinipour, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical research investigator, this episode addresses key dermatological concerns among patients of color, misconceptions in skin health, and the importance of diversity in clinical research.Key Timestamps00:00 Introductions01:06 Misconceptions regarding alopecia02:58 Recent research involvement05:21 SOCS Symposium06:07 Dr. Elbuluk interview07:51 Dr. Aguh interviewTo learn more about SOCS’s mentorship programs and initiatives, visit the Skin of Color Society website: https://skinofcolorsociety.org/. 

In this episode of Skin of Color Savvy, Dr. Victoria Barbosa and Dr. Janiene Luke dive into hair care myths, patient habits, and managing hair loss in patients with skin of color. They discuss misconceptions about alopecia, the impact of protective styling, and the importance of cultural humility in dermatology. From diagnostic strategies to treatment options like minoxidil, PRP, and JAK inhibitors, they provide expert insights to enhance patient care. Plus, they highlight the role of hairstylists in promoting healthy hair practices. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on improving hair loss outcomes in diverse patient populations.Chapters00:05 - Introductions01:52 - Misconceptions about hair loss03:27 - Protective hairstyling05:30 - Long-term commitment09:20 - Common types of alopecia11:01 - Importance of not assuming13:30 - Use of dermoscopy19:15 - Practices that exacerbate conditions20:40 - Topical treatment comparisons25:03 - Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia (CCCA)28:00 - Minoxidil practices35:29 - Advice given to patients39:17 - Final thoughts

In this Skin of Color Savvy News Update, Dr. Brittany Oliver highlights the vital role of mentorship in dermatology and the Skin of Color Society’s (SOCS) efforts to foster professional growth. She discusses key mentorship programs, reflects on influential mentors for Black History Month, and explores the intersection of dermatology and cardiovascular health during American Heart Month. Tune in to learn how mentorship, advocacy, and systemic change can drive diversity and improve patient care.

Welcome to Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color!In episode 2 of Skin of Color Savvy, host Nada Elbuluk, MD, chats with pigmentary disorder expert Michelle Rodrigues, MBBS, about diagnosing and managing conditions like melasma, vitiligo, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in diverse populations. They discuss key diagnostic tools, systemic associations, and emerging therapies, including non-hydroquinone agents, picosecond lasers, and JAK inhibitors. The episode highlights the importance of comprehensive photoprotection, culturally competent care, and personalized treatment strategies to improve outcomes and address unique challenges in skin of color dermatology.Video Version only on HCPLive: CLICK HEREChapters00:00 - Start02:15 - Common Pigmentary Disorders04:25 - Diagnostic Workup for Pigmentary Disorders08:35 - Labs/Blood Work for Pigmentary Disorders12:10 - Prevalence of Pigmentary Disorders14:50 - Emerging Therapies for Pigmentary Disorders19:45 - ConclusionRelevant disclosures for Elbuluk include Incyte. Rodrigues has no relevant disclosures to report.

In the inaugural Skin of Color Savvy: News Update, host Robert Brodell, MD, introduces the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) and its mission to promote excellence in skin of color dermatology. Founded in 2004 by Susan C. Taylor, MD, SOCS is a global leader with members in over 30 countries. Through its pillars of research, education, mentorship, and advocacy, SOCS is committed to advancing dermatologic care, increasing diversity in the field, and addressing the unique needs of patients with skin of color.Brodell highlights several SOCS initiatives designed to support innovation and diversity in dermatology. These include the Sanofi and Regeneron Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Mid-Career Award, the Institutional Research Fellowship Grant for underrepresented minority physicians, and the Early Career Innovations Award, which fosters creative solutions in the field. SOCS also supports cutting-edge research through its annual Scientific Symposium, where experts present the latest findings in skin of color dermatology.The episode also introduces SOCS’s “My Best Winter Skin” campaign, launched to promote optimal winter skincare practices and raise awareness about skin health. This initiative includes an international awareness day, volunteer events, educational materials, and product donations sponsored by Clinique. Brodell encourages dermatologists to participate in outreach efforts within their communities to promote skin health and support SOCS’s broader mission.In the final update, Brodell shares details about TORPEDO (Training Opportunities and Residency Programs to Enhance Diversity and Outcomes), an initiative at the University of Mississippi to foster diversity in dermatology. Through mentoring, away rotations, and research opportunities, TORPEDO supports students from historically Black colleges and universities, addressing gaps in mentorship and training.Chapters00:00 - Introduction01:40 - SOCS Overview04:55 - SOCS Research Initiatives and Awards10:00 - My Best Winter Skin campaign12:55 - Training Opportunities and Residency Programs (TORPEDO) Program15:30 - Conclusion/Brodell Contact Info

Welcome to Skin of Color Savvy: The Art and Science of Treating Patients of Color, the official podcast of the Skin of Color Society, produced by HCPLive. Hosted by Skin of Color Society (SOCS) leaders, this podcast delves into the latest research, clinical insights, and culturally competent care practices in dermatology. From groundbreaking studies to practice-changing insights, we’re here to empower healthcare providers with expert perspectives on treating patients with skin of color.In this, the podcast’s inaugural episode, SOCS board members Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, vice chair for Diversity and Inclusion for the Department of Dermatology and professor of Clinical Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Shawn Kwatra, MD, associate professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, explore the topic of Itch in Skin of Color.Itch, or pruritus, in patients with skin of color presents unique challenges that are often overlooked in clinical practice. One significant issue is the lack of visible erythema, which can make it harder for clinicians to identify and assess the severity of the condition. During the conversation, Dr. Alexis emphasized that patients with darker skin tones often face delays in care due to these diagnostic challenges and cultural barriers that may prevent them from fully communicating the impact of their symptoms. He shared that targeted questions—such as asking whether itch disrupts sleep or daily focus—can be critical in uncovering the true burden of the condition.Kwatra highlights the need for a more tailored approach to treatment, noting that conventional therapies may not always address the specific needs of patients with darker skin tones. Topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, and other standard treatments are often prescribed, but they may not fully resolve itch in certain cases, particularly when underlying conditions like atopic dermatitis or lichen planus are involved.Alexis also shared his experiences with integrating newer therapeutic options, such as topical JAK inhibitors, which have shown promise in reducing itch and inflammation in this population. Together, the conversation underscored the importance of cultural competence, thorough patient history-taking, and exploring innovative therapies to address the unique challenges of itch in skin of color.Chapters00:00 - Start02:00 - Itch in Skin of Color02:30 - Kwatra’s Perspectives05:30 - Alexis’s Perspectives07:48 - Practice Pearls for Evaluating Itch11:30 - Therapeutic Approaches16:10 - Conclusion/ClosingRelevant disclosures for Alexis include, Leo, Novartis, Menlo, Galderma, Pfizer, Sanofi-Regeneron, Dermavant, Unilever, Celgene, Beiersdorf, Valeant, L’Oreal, BMS, Menlo, Scientis, Bausch health , UCB, Foamix , Cassiopea, and Arcutis, among others. Relevant disclosures for Kwatra includeAbbvie, Amgen, Arcutis, Aslan Pharmaceuticals, Cara Therapeutics, Castle Biosciences, Celldex Therapeutics, Galderma, Incyte Corporation, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, Leo, Regeneron, and Sanofi, among others.