Outline:
Part 1 – Addressing Racial Disparities in Dermatology: Diagnostic Challenges (90 minutes)
- Introduction & Objectives (5 minutes)
- Presenter background and motivation for this topic
- Why this conversation matters: lack of representation in dermatology
- What to expect in Part 1 and Part 2
2. Understanding the Disparities (12 minutes)
- History of dermatology and systemic exclusion of Black patients
- Bias in medical textbooks and clinical education (few images of dark skin)
- Statistics: misdiagnosis rates, delays in treatment
- Underrepresentation in clinical research
3. Common Skin Conditions in Melanated Skin (25 minutes)
- Acne: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), keloids, scarring differences
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Often mistaken for fungal infections
- Psoriasis: May appear violet or dark brown, not red
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: Can mimic scalp psoriasis or be mistaken for dandruff
- Misdiagnoses due to lack of training or experience with darker skin tones
- Photos and dermatoscopic considerations
4. Environmental & Lifestyle Influences (10 minutes)
- Chemical exposures from hair relaxers, synthetic wigs, weaves
- Hormone disruption from personal care products
- Impact of chronic stress, diet, and structural racism on skin health
- Cultural hair and skin care practices often misunderstood by practitioners
5. Lab Testing & Diagnostic Oversights (10 minutes)
- Common deficiencies: Vitamin D, iron, zinc, B12
- Hormonal imbalances: PCOS, thyroid, cortisol dysfunction
- Fungal vs. bacterial infections—importance of proper swabs/biopsies
- Challenges interpreting results for Black patients (e.g., “normal” vitamin D ranges)
6. Case Study Review (20 minutes)
- Walkthrough illustrative cases:
- Initial misdiagnosis
- Environmental/lifestyle factors
- Diagnostic pivot after proper assessment and labs
7. Wrap (8 minutes)
- Recap key takeaways:
- Representation matters
- Understand common presentations in melanated skin
- Consider environmental and systemic factors
Part 2 – Integrative & Naturopathic Approaches for Melanated Skin (90 minutes)
1. Welcome & Recap (5 minutes)
- Brief recap of Part 1 key insights
- Reconnect with theme of representation and trust
- Framing skin health through a naturopathic lens
2. Naturopathic Understanding of Skin Health (10 minutes)
- Skin as a reflection of gut, immune, and detox systems
- Holistic approach: body systems, environment, emotional health
- The terrain theory: supporting the body’s resilience vs. suppressing symptoms
3. Botanical & Nutritional Therapies (25 minutes)
- Acne: Zinc, DIM, green tea extract, berberine, probiotics
- Eczema/Psoriasis: Omega-3s, quercetin, curcumin, calendula, licorice
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: Antifungal botanicals (neem, tea tree, oregano), B vitamins
- Topicals safe for melanated skin (avoiding lightening agents or sensitizers)
- Diet considerations: anti-inflammatory, low-glycemic, nutrient-dense
4. Psychological Impacts & Cultural Sensitivity (10 minutes)
- The burden of visible skin issues on self-esteem and identity
- Colourism and stigma in beauty culture
- The clinician’s role in validating patient experiences
- Cultural humility vs. cultural competence
5. Functional Labs & Root Cause Assessment (10 minutes)
- Recommended labs: fasting blood sugar, fasting insulin & HbA1c, prolactin, estrogen, testosterone, thyroid, and progesterone levels. vitamin D, ferritin, vitamin B12, food sensitivities, comprehensive hormonal panels
- Patterns in melanated populations: low Vitamin D, iron deficiency anemia, gut dysbiosis
- Case for individualized plans vs. one-size-fits-all protocols
6. Case Study: Integrative Treatment Plan (20 minutes)
- Case:
- Intake process
- Treatment strategy (diet, supplementation, topicals, referrals)
- Emotional/psychosocial support
- Highlight barriers, successes, and clinical decisions
7. Final Thoughts & Resources (10 minutes)
- Empowerment through education and advocacy
- Resources for further reading, patient tools, and practitioner training
- Call to action: challenge bias, improve care, stay informed
Presented by Dr Olivia Rose ND