In a move to address under-representation in the professional skin care industry’s training curricula regarding melanin-rich skin tones (specifically those categorized as Fitzpatrick levels IV-VI), Dermalogica announced it is launching “Treating Melanin-Rich Skin.”

“Textbooks primarily feature lighter skin tones on models and in medical illustrations, and classes often omit how skin conditions present in darker skin tone variations. This causes a learning gap that can lead to inequalities in care, from the initial client consultation through skin analysis and treatment,” Dermalogica stated in a company news release.

The free course is designed for skin therapists and future industry professionals to strengthen their foundational knowledge of understanding and treating melanin-rich skin. It is comprised of three self-led modules. Module one focuses on cultural intelligence (CQ) to strengthen communication and improve the client experience. The second module delves into the science of melanin and melanin-rich skin structure, exploring how it affects skin conditions such as aging, hyperpigmentation, breakouts, sensitivity, and more. Students will learn how to unlock effective skin treatments for these skin conditions and types of ingredients to use and avoid when treating melanin-rich skin. The third module addresses advanced skin services, focusing on chemical peels, microneedling, nanoinfusion, dermaplaning, and LED. The curriculum details precautions and contraindications that may be present with melanin-rich skin, guiding the professional on how to perform each of these services successfully.

The course, found at TreatingMelaninRichSkin.com, is open to the professional skin care industry and currently offered in seven languages: English, German, Spanish, Italian, Vietnamese, French, and Mandarin. A certificate of completion is available to print out or share digitally.