Many things plague the Black community. Among them are economical, religious, social trials, and especially major health issues. In addition to being highly inflicted with HIV and AIDS, on a smaller scale, we are being impacted by skin problems as well.One of the most major skin ailments plaguing our culture is Acne Vulgaris, or Acne. Acne occurs when oil and dead skin cells clog the skin’s pores. A recent study done through the 85 percent of teens and adults are mildly, if not fully, affected by acne. Acne not only takes a toll on a person’s physical well being, but mental state as well.
Senior Audrey K. Sam states that, “I struggled with acne for eight whole years, and it was such a hassle both internally and externally. It’s like you want to hide behind a mask but you can’t, because your face is your mask.”
Symptoms of acne include whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. While the Black community is one of the most heavily affected by acne due to the large amounts of oil that ethnic skin produces and retains, it is still treatable, and in most cases curable. Gentle cleansing with soap or non-prescription products such as benzoyl peroxide lotions, often control mild acne cases and prevent new breakouts.
“I have found that Proactive treatments and Dove facial wash are very effective” says Sam.
Another disorder which is making its way through the Black community is Keloids, an overgrowth of scar tissue on the skin most often seen on the shoulders and chest. “Keloids are very crucial among blacks. Most people know someone with them or either have them and are ignorant as to what exactly they are,” says Junior Cerissa Edwards.
Keloids can appear anywhere and usually arise in an area of injury, such as after a burn or severe acne, or from a minor scratch. Apma-nc.com explains that keloids are more frequent in blacks than in whites and are not transmitted from individual to individual. While Keloids are serious, they are not life threatening and can be treated with steroid injections, radiation surgery, silasic gel, or skin grafting surgery.
In addition to Acne and Keloids, another skin issue that is silently creeping up on blacks is Psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic disorder, which occurs within (but is not limited to) both black men and women of all ages and is most common within the age ranges of 20-40. The disorder starts out as a few small flakey patches, which may be red or silver, known as plaque. The plaque areas can enlarge and increase in number and have been known to erupt all over the body. While Psoriasis is severe, it is treatable with topical treatments, light treatments, or systematic medication.
While these disorders are serious, none of them are deadly and they can all be treated with the help of a doctor or physician.