Current demographic trends in the United States highlight the growing population of those who identify as having “skin of color.” As such, dermatologists must have a greater comfort level and knowledge in treating some of the unique skin and hair conditions seen in this population. Understanding the scientific basis for the evolution of skin color and hair texture is necessary in order to understand the variations in the characteristics of skin and hair seen among racial and ethnic groups. This review seeks to highlight the current scientific explanation of skin color and hair texture, with special attention to people of African descent, in an attempt to give insight into the clinical presentations of hair and skin disorders seen in this group.

DOI: 10.12788/j.sder.2016.057

This review seeks to highlight the current scientific explanation of skin color and hair texture, with special attention to people of African descent, in an attempt to give insight into the clinical presentations of hair and skin disorders seen in this group.