The Diversity Gap in Psoriasis Care

Psoriasis doesn’t look the same on every skin tone. In this episode, we break down how psoriasis appears on darker skin, lighter skin and mixed tones, why inflammation may look purple, brown or gray instead of red, and why these differences can delay diagnosis. We explore the limits of the Fitzpatrick scale, how ancestry shapes skin response, and what patients with melanin-rich skin should know about treatment, light therapy and pigment changes.

With dermatologist Dr. Mona Shariari, we explain how to recognize psoriasis on different skin tones, what symptoms to watch for, and how to advocate for accurate care. If you’ve ever wondered what psoriasis really looks like on brown or Black skin—or why your symptoms don’t match online photos—this episode brings clarity, science and practical guidance.

This episode is sponsored by Eli Lilly. We’re grateful for their support in helping us highlight the importance of accurate, inclusive dermatology education and expand conversations that improve care for every skin tone.