Physician Spotlight: Valerie Harvey, MD, MPH, FAAD

By 2042, more than half of the US population will have skin of color, and with increasing diversity in the population comes diversity of skincare needs.

Valerie Harvey, MD, MPH, FAAD, co-Director for Hampton University Skin of Color Research Institute in Hampton, VA and President-elect of the Skin of Color Society, spoke to Practical Dermatology® magazine about where we are and where we should be headed in terms of diversity and inclusion in skincare.

Are skincare companies finally “getting it” when it comes to diversity and different skin types?

Valerie Harvey, MD, MPH: Yes. Many skincare companies and pharmaceutical companies are becoming more aware of diverse skin health needs, as they may vary across the different skin types. We attribute much of this heightened awareness to the recent social issues and illumination of the stark health disparities that exist here in the United States.

What are some of the limitations of the Fitzpatrick Skin Type scale?

Dr. Harvey: The Fitzpatrick Skin Type was initially developed to measure skin susceptibility to burning during phototherapy or light treatment. Since the system’s development, dermatologists have often used the Fitzpatrick system as a means of describing one’s level of pigmentation. There are several limitations to using this, including its poor correlation with skin color and inconsistencies in accuracy across users.

How does skin color type affect the diagnosis and treatment of common skin diseases?

Dr. Harvey: Skin color and skin tone can affect how certain skin conditions manifest or appear on clinical examination. For example, in a patient with dark skin, one may not be able to appreciate inflammation or redness, which may appear more purple or violaceous. This may occur with certain medication reactions or skin infections, such as cellulitis. Although educational efforts on treating patients with skin of color have improved, they are lacking in some medical schools and residency training programs.

What is the Skin of Color Society’s upcoming media day? Why is important to educate the media on these issues?

Dr. Harvey: The Skin of Color Society hosts members of the media representing numerous news/media outlets to discuss some of the most emergent dermatologic topics pertaining to skin of color. Attendees will learn first-hand from nationally recognized experts on the latest advances in skin of color dermatology. This year it will take place virtually.