Skin Conditions Affecting Hispanics/Latinos

The most common skin trait amongst the Hispanic population is a tendency for hyperpigmentation.  Hispanics genetically have more melanin in their skin.  Some of these conditions are described below:

Melasma (also known as a Pregnancy Mask).  This is a result of too much sun exposure and a fluctuation in hormones.  The best prevention is daily use of sunscreen.  Treatments are available such as chemical peels, topical retinoids and lasers.  However, some of these treatments have resulted in more hyperpigmentation. 

Vitiligo is a different kind of pigmentation condition suffered by Hispanics.  This is actually a loss of pigmentation and leaves white marks which are highly susceptible to skin cancer.  Hyperthyroid and autoimmune conditions are usually the cause of Vitiligo.  Skin grafts are sometimes suggested but generally, treatment is non-existent.

Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation is another skin issue for Hispanics.  This condition is usually the result of an injury to the skin, acne, burns, insect bites, laser treatments, and microdermabrasion.

Skin Cancer.  This is just as common in all skin types.  Those with darker skin erroneously believe they are not as likely to get skin cancer and tend not to wear sunscreen.  They are less likely to have yearly screenings and the cancer is diagnosed at later stages.  Having darker skin does not mean you have less of a chance of getting skin cancer and that you do not need to wear sunscreen on a daily basis.

What Is Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

Sebaceous Hyperplasia is a very common skin condition that is really nothing to be worried about.  I see clients daily who have this condition and are frustrated by it.  These lesions show up mostly on the forehead, cheeks and nose and appear as whitish-yellow or skin-colored papules that are soft and vary in size from 2-9 mm.  The cause is an enlargement of the sebaceous (oil) gland.  Other than being frustrated by them, there is nothing to be concerned about.  They present no immediate health threat.  If you are really bothered by these consult your physician as there are options to treating them such as laser or cauterization.  Be aware these lesions may reoccur following removal and scarring is possible unless the entire sebaceous gland is removed.  Another type of treatment used is Accutane or Oral Isotretinoin.  I do not recommend this treatment as it can leave lasting health complications later in life such as digestive issues and once the medication is stopped the lesions may return.  Yes, Sebaceous Hyperplasia can be cosmetically irritating to those who have it, but it is not a health threat. 

How Does Stress Affect Acne?

Stress is the number one aggravating factor for acne suffers.  What you consider stress may not be what your physical body considers stress.  Stress is ANY kind of change in your life.  It might be something you are happy about but your body still responds to the change.

When your body perceives something to be stressful the weakest link in your body is affected.  This could be an old injury or a weak organ.  If you suffer from acne it will be the pores of your skin.  Stress activates your adrenal glands which produce more hormones.  This results in flare-ups for acne sufferers.

This affects women more because women produce most of their male hormones in their adrenal glands.  Men are not affected as strongly because they are already producing large amounts of testosterone and therefore their oil glands are already operating at maximum levels.  This is why women tend to have fluctuations in their acne flare-ups and men’s flare-ups are more constant.

When an acne sufferer experiences a flare-up more stress results and the vicious circle continues. 

Find ways to reduce your stress.  Something that works for you.  Yoga, meditation, running, lifting weights, playing tennis, Zumba, listening to music, reading, etc.  Consistently releasing stress will assist you with clearing your acne.