Diversity in Dermatology: A Society Devoted to Skin of Color

The US Census Bureau predicts that more than half of the country’s population will identify as a race other than non-Hispanic white by the year 2044. Racial disparities also exist in the physician population where black individuals and Latinos are underrepresented. The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) was established to address the need for parity among dermatology patients with skin of color. The society provides educational support on dermatologic health related to skin of color and functions through committees that represent the multifaceted aspects of the organization. This column highlights the ongoing efforts of SOCS and its impact since its inception. We also chronicle the society’s approach to broadening the scope of the specialty of dermatology.