### Atopic Dermatitis and Skin Tones Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, can appear differently depending on your child's skin tone, which can affect how quickly they get diagnosed and treated. Studies show that Black, Asian, and Hispanic children are at a higher risk of having severe atopic dermatitis compared to White children. #### Symptoms on Different Skin Tones - **White Skin**: Atopic dermatitis often appears as red patches or dots. - **Black, Brown, Yellow, and Olive Skin**: The affected areas may look ashen gray, dark brown, or purple. In Asian skin, lesions may have well-defined borders, increased scaling, and thick, rough skin. #### Common Symptoms - **Papules**: Small bumps that are more common in darker skin, often appearing on the chest, legs, arms, and back. - **Lichenification**: Thick, rough, and leathery skin due to scratching, more common in yellow or dark skin tones. - **Hyperpigmentation and Hypopigmentation**: Skin can become darker or lighter, even after treatment. - **Dennie-Morgan Lines**: Dark folds or creases under the eyes, more common in dark skin. - **Thickened Skin on Soles and Palms**: More lines in the skin than normal. #### Importance of Specialized Dermatologists Most dermatology knowledge comes from studying White skin, but this is changing. It's crucial to find a dermatologist who understands how eczema looks on different skin tones. You can ask your primary care doctor for a referral or use the “Find a Doctor” directory on the Skin of Color Society website. By being proactive, you can help manage your child's symptoms and improve their quality of life.