5 Key Takeaways

• 1

  The Fitzpatrick scale inadequately represents darker skin, as types V and VI were added based on ethnicity rather than biological measurement.

• 2

  The term 'skin of color' has evolved to promote equity in education and research but can obscure important clinical differences.

• 3

  'Skin of color' serves as both an equity framework and a clinical shorthand, which may not align with individualized dermatological care.

• 4

  The authors propose a granular approach to 'skin of color' that includes pigment phenotype, ancestry, sociocultural context, and clinical risk modifiers.

• 5

  Clinicians should specify which aspect of 'skin of color' is relevant in clinical or research contexts to enhance clarity and precision.