From the Editor: The essential role of dermatology publications in enhancing professional diversity, equity, and inclusion

Dermatologists of color have long championed skin of color representation in education and workforce diversity. For health equity, we must reconsider even fundamental and accepted terminology. The Fitzpatrick skin type (FST) scale, with both disproportionate focus on white skin tones and inconsistent use, perpetuates skin color bias. Indeed, since FST does not purely objectively estimate skin pigmentation, it may inaccurately assess patients regarding risks for skin cancer and from interventions. Dermatology must seek an objective classification system, and given the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), technology-based approaches may be solutions.

Equity in skin typing: why it's time to replace the Fitzpatrick scale

All education, including medical education, reflects society's trends and needs. Skin and skin pigmentation have both personal and societal effects on an individual. During the protests following the killing of George Floyd in the United States and worldwide, there has been a large-scale, united drive to acknowledge and establish a strong resolve against systematic racism and its insidious and lasting effects, including economic exclusion, academic and scientific marginalization, and health disparities.

From the Editor: The essential role of dermatology publications in enhancing professional diversity, equity, and inclusion

References

Equity in skin typing: why it's time to replace the Fitzpatrick scale

Dermatological education for the 21st century: prioritizing diversity

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