The difference between black skin and white skin is more than just color. Black people are troubled by unique skin problems. Also, their skin reacts differently to various ailments.

 

Some skin disorders are more common-and more apparent­ in black people: keloids, "razor bumps," vitiligo, lupus erythema­tosus, tinea versicolor, acne due to pomades applied to the scalp, and others. Some diseases of the skin are considered unusual or rare among black people: scabies, head lice, and rosacea are some examples of these uncommon ailments.

 

Many sk

in problems in blacks are related to cosmetics de­signed for use on black skin and to fashion trends that are more common among blacks. For example, the use of creams and oils to reduce ashy skin color can cause hair follicle infections of the body and scalp. Also, corn-rowing, hot-combing, and hair-straightening chemicals often lead to scalp irri1ation and temporary hair loss.

 

Some allergies seem to show up more frequently in black people, as well. The most common cause of allergic reactions in black women is an ingredient (paraphenylenediamine) used in hair dyes. Allergies to nickel can cause a rash on the earlobes from earrings and on the ears and temples from the nickel in eyeglass frames. Black men have a tendency to develop severe and continu­ing allergies to chromium compounds in cement and leather. Because of the scratching and rubbing that goes along with allergy rashes, black skin usually thickens and develops excess pigmenta­tion, which can become a cosmetic problem.