The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) is working to change the way dermatology understands, researches and treats patients with darker skin. Founded in 2004 by dermatologist Dr. Susan C. Taylor, the international professional organization promotes skin-of-color dermatology through research, education, mentorship and advocacy, with a stated goal of achieving health equity and excellence in patient care. Its membership now spans more than 1,330 professionals in 22 countries.

The need is significant. Dermatology has historically underrepresented darker skin tones in medical education, research and clinical imagery, contributing to missed or delayed diagnoses and gaps in treatment. A recent review co-authored by Taylor, SOCS President Dr. Nada Elbuluk and other dermatology leaders noted that important aspects of care for people with skin of color have historically been overlooked.

SOCS’s latest major initiative was its 22nd Annual Scientific Symposium, held March 26 in Denver under the theme “Championing Evidence-Based Dermatology and Collaboration.” Nearly 500 participants from 13 countries attended the event, which featured research presentations, expert discussions and a keynote by former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin. Research presented included studies examining racial disparities in melanoma surgery, inflammation imaging in skin of color, hidradenitis suppurativa and other conditions affecting diverse populations.

The Society is also looking beyond conferences. In February, SOCS leaders Dr. Mona Shahriari, Taylor and Elbuluk launched a conversation around “2026: The Year of Skin Equity,” calling for measurable action rather than simply acknowledging disparities. Their discussion highlighted the need for greater representation in clinical trials, standardized residency training and diverse datasets for artificial intelligence used in dermatology.

For Taylor, progress in the field can have consequences far beyond individual careers. In an interview about SOCS, she said larger research grants could be “absolutely transformative to the researcher, to the researcher’s career, and to the field of skin of color.”

Elbuluk has similarly emphasized the importance of equity in patient care. “The USC Skin of Color and Pigmentary Disorders Program” she leads, she said, provides specialized care while conducting research into skin of color, pigmentation and health equity.

For people of color, SOCS’s work represents more than better skincare advice. It addresses whether diseases are recognized accurately, whether treatments are tested on representative populations, whether medical students receive adequate training and whether patients can find clinicians equipped to understand their skin.

Its expanding research, mentorship and public education programs are therefore aimed at changing both the experience of patients today and the dermatology workforce of tomorrow.

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