Skin Conditions in Black Skin

What is Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra?

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra are multiple, black or dark brown small dots on the face and neck. They are famously present in actor Morgan Freeman. The size and amount of dots increase with age. They have a strong genetic link and affect up to 35% of Black people. They are not cancerous but can be considered cosmetically undesirable by some. 

 

How do you treat Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra?

Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra is treated at our office with electrocautery or “zapping” followed by curettage. We can apply a topical or local anesthetic so that the removals are completely painless. Depending on how many dots you have, you may need several sessions to remove all the dots and achieve clear skin. 

 

Keloids 

What are keloids?

Keloids are essentially very hard and raised scars caused by a skin injury. They are common at the sites of surgery or ear piercings. They can also occur if acne is severe and left untreated. They are much more common in people of color. 

 

How do you treat keloid scars?

Keloids will not improve without treatment. We treat keloids with steroid injections, surgical removal, and LASER treatment to flatten the scar and improve the redness. 

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Pesudofolliculitis Barbae 

What is Pseduofolliculitis barbae?

Pseduofolliculitis barbae is an itchy and tender inflammation of the hair follicles in the skin area. It is common in black people who shave their beards or pubic hairs. The hair is so thick and curly that when it is shaved, it folds inwards and causes a foreign body inflammatory reaction. It is prone to infection so it should be treated immediately. 

 

How do you treat Pseduofolliculitis barbae?

We recommend people who are prone to pseduofolliculitis barbae to avoid razor blades when shaving and instead use electric shavers. We can use topical steroids and our unique LASERS to treat the inflammation and redness. If it goes untreated and becomes severe enough, it can become infected. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation for pseduofolliculitis barbae treatment.