Expert Interview: Dr. Oyerinde
MS: What has your experience as both a patient and doctor been when it comes to skin of color?
Dr. Oyerinde: Knowing about different cultures is really important when it comes to hair loss. You do not need to be a minority yourself to be a skilled provider but it's important to be knowledgeable and well-informed about various cultures when helping patients with different hair loss situations. I recently gave lectures on hair loss to Baylor residents as this is something that affects all patients but is most often undiagnosed or late- diagnosed when it comes to black and brown patients. Many things can be attributed to delayed diagnoses for black and brown patients experiencing hair loss whether it be denied treatment, neglect, racism, etc.
MS: What conditions do you see most often in your office?
Dr. Oyerinde: I see everything from rashes and eczema, dry or sensitive skin, but primarily encounter patients with some form of hair loss or a variety of pigmentary disorders such as melasma, vitiligo, acanthosis nigricans, and more.
MS: In your experience as a dermatologist, which skin conditions do doctors often miss or get wrong in their diagnosis?
Dr. Oyerinde: Good question! Sometimes, people with curly or coily hair types do not get the right treatment for hair loss, and those with darker skin may not receive proper care for rashes and other skin conditions. Skin cancer is especially risky for people with darker skin tones because it doesn't look the same as it does in people with lighter skin tones. This can lead to serious, even life-threatening problems if not caught early. Luckily, textbooks have gotten better at showing different skin diseases on different on skin tones. One of my favorite resources, Visual Diagnosis, has pictures of different complexions. That's why it's important to teach doctors-in-training about how skin conditions can look different in each person and to be aware of different cultures.
MS: Why did you start the Skin of Color Clinic, and why do you think it's important to have clinics like this?
Dr. Oyerinde: I finished my dermatology residency at Harvard and now live in Boston, a city with more diversity than some might think. I know of about five clinics specifically for people with darker skin or from different ethnic backgrounds outside of Houston. I wanted to start Skin of Color Clinics to make sure everyone gets great care and that doctors are trained to provide great care to every patient. It's really important for every doctor to understand different cultural practices so they can give the best care to every patient.
For example, some of my Muslim patients wear hijabs and sometimes have hair loss issues because of it. Even though I'm not from their culture, I want to understand their needs so I can help them better. I think it's important not to assume things about patients and to make them feel comfortable no matter what their background is, whether that is race, language, culture, etc.
MS: What difficulties or challenges did you face when starting the Skin of Color Clinic?
Dr. Oyerinde: Because diversity in dermatology has become an important topic lately, I've received only positive responses and feedback, which is great. I'm hopeful that with more doctors with expertise in caring for all patients, regardless of skin tone or type. I'm encouraging Baylor to train or hire more providers besides myself so that I can feel confident that our patients are in good hands, especially when I'm not available due to things like maternity leave. I'm also hoping for increased funding for our clinic to recruit more providers.
MS: What part of working at the Skin of Color Clinic brings you the most joy?
Dr. Oyerinde: One of the things I enjoy most is when my patients say, "I'm so glad you're here." Building connections and relationships with my patients brings me a lot of joy. There are many other dermatologists that I know that are fantastic at their work. They might not call themselves "skin of color" providers, but they're really good at treating patients from all backgrounds and doing it really well.
I'm originally from Atlanta but went to Howard University for college, which was appealing to me because it is an HBCU. In medical school, I had a large and diverse class, and I completed my residency at Harvard University. I ended up in Houston to be closer to my family and because I love the diversity of the patient population here as well.
MS: What recommendations or resources do you suggest for people who don't have access to a Skin of Color Clinic? Do you think teledermatology has been helpful in addressing the lack of provider access?
Dr. Oyerinde: For doctors, I suggest using resources like VisualDx, which has a wide range of dermatologic conditions shown in different skin tones. Personally, I added visuals for about 12-14 conditions in VisualDx to provide more visual references and tips for identifying these conditions in skin of color. Additionally, I recommend exploring websites, attending conferences, and taking advantage of memberships from organizations like the Skin of Color Society and the American Academy of Dermatology.
For patients who don't have access to a Skin of Color Clinic, I suggest researching skilled dermatologists in your area using resources like the Black Derm Directory. Don't hesitate to ask questions and advocate for yourself when working with your doctor!
I believe teledermatology has its benefits, especially during times like the peak of Covid when triaging patients was crucial. However, some diseases are best examined in person to accurately assess coloration and inquire about additional signs and symptoms. Despite this, teledermatology plays a valuable role in increasing access, particularly for patients with skin of color.
MS: Which skincare products do you suggest for all of your patients? For example, sunscreen? Also, what are your top 3 skincare tips for patients of color?
Dr. Oyerinde: Sunscreen is really important for everyone, especially for people of color, like those of Black or African descent, because it might not be a regular part of their skincare routine. Sunscreen not only protects the skin from sun damage but also helps prevent premature aging and dark spots, which are more common in patients of color. I also suggest using fragrance-free products for all patients, especially those with sensitive skin.
When it comes to skincare routines, I believe in keeping things simple. For patients with dry skin who find that regular lotions don't provide enough moisture, I suggest using cream or ointments, especially those containing oils or petrolatum because they're better at keeping your skin hydrated. Using a gentle cleanser every day and a vitamin C serum for preventing dark spots are also important.
During the day, sunscreen is a must, and at night, I recommend using a vitamin A derivative like retinoid. For patients with skin of color, I suggest incorporating vitamin C for fading dark spots, as well as glycolic or kojic acid and niacinamide for brightening and smoothing the skin's texture. It is important to use these products in moderation to avoid skin irritation or sensitivity to the sun. I also like ceramides and hyaluronic acid because they hydrate the skin and reduce fine lines.
MS: Are there any products, procedures, or treatments you would recommend caution with your patients, particularly those with darker skin tones?
Dr. Oyerinde: I would always recommend caution and do your research on lasers and chemical peels suitable for your skin type and skin concerns. It is also important to find an experienced dermatologist for these procedures. Laser treatments like hair removal or skin resurfacing, as well as chemical peels, have different settings and strength levels. Make sure to visit a trusted doctor to determine the best option for your skin tone and concerns. While Botox injections and fillers are generally safe for all skin tones, it is important to find a provider with experience and education in providing these treatments.
