Skin Tone and Common Skin Conditions

Skin tone not only refers to what race someone belongs to, because people of certain races also have varying skin tone. In general, race and ethnicity is not the full definition of one’s skin tone. Dermatologists actually have a range of skin tones that start from 1, which is the palest, to 4 which is the mid-tone, to 6 which is deeply pigmented. This is called the Fitzpatrick skin typing. The way common conditions affect people vary depending on where they are on this scale. Here are four common conditions:

• Sun Damage – Also known as photoaging, this is the damage done to your skin from prolonged exposure to the sun. People with fairer skin or lighter skin types are more prone to getting their skin damaged by the sun easier. This also makes them a lot more susceptible to skin cancer. This is because of the lower level of pigments on the skin, which does add a small amount of protection against the sun’s UV rays. A caveat is that just because someone has darker skin, that they are not at risk for skin cancer, which is simply false. There are some instances of skin cancer in individuals with darker skin where the spots were found in areas of the skin that were not generally exposed to the sun, like the soles of the feet.
• Hyperpigmentation – Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of the skin from trauma scars and certain skin conditions like acne, eczema and melasma. Those with darker skin tones are a lot more prone to hyperpigmentation, and can even be exacerbated or accelerated by prolonged sun exposure. This is why it’s important to ALWAYS wear sunscreens, regardless of your skin tone. Photoaging and hyperpigmentation both can wreak havoc on your skin without the proper sun protection and can do a lot of damage.
• Dryness – While this condition affects everyone regardless of skin tone, dry skin looks a lot more visible in people with darker skin tone. This dry appearance of skin comes from the shedding and scaling. Those with darker skin tones can opt for a thicker moisturizer that rebuilds the skin barrier. Look for ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and petroleum jelly for best results. Keep in mind that the best time to moisturize is when the skin is still damp just after you have finished showering or bathing.
• General Sensitivity – This condition affects everyone regardless of skin tone. If you have sensitive skin, you should avoid unscented, paraben-free products. It’s also important to patch-test any new skincare items you plan on using to avoid any large-scale inflammation that can cause even more damage to your skin. You should also avoid common irritants like certain acids, and avoid using too much of certain products. Following a basic routine properly should alleviate any effects of sensitivity of your skin, and if you do have concerns, you should contact your dermatologist.