Differences in Perceptions of Beauty and Cosmetic Procedures Performed in Ethnic Patients

The United States has become progressively more multicultural, with the ethnic population
growing at record rates. The US Census Bureau projects that, by the year 2056, greater
than 50% of the US population will be of non-Caucasian descent. Ethnic patients have
different cosmetic concerns and natural features that are unique. The cosmetic concerns of
ethnic patients also differ as the result of differences in skin pathophysiology, mechanisms
of aging, and unique anatomic structure. There is no longer a single standard of beauty. We
must now adapt to the more diverse population and understand how to accommodate the
diversity of beauty in the United States. Ethnic patients do not necessarily want a Westernized
look because what constitutes beauty is determined by racial, cultural, and environmental
influences. We as leaders in skin care must understand these differences and
adapt our practices accordingly. This article will focus on the differences in aging in
different ethnic populations and highlight procedures unique to skin of color.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 28:115-129 © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The United States has become progressively more multicultural, with the ethnic population
growing at record rates. The US Census Bureau projects that, by the year 2056, greater
than 50% of the US population will be of non-Caucasian descent. Ethnic patients have
different cosmetic concerns and natural features that are unique. The cosmetic concerns of
ethnic patients also differ as the result of differences in skin pathophysiology, mechanisms
of aging, and unique anatomic structure. There is no longer a single standard of beauty. We
must now adapt to the more diverse population and understand how to accommodate the
diversity of beauty in the United States. Ethnic patients do not necessarily want a Westernized
look because what constitutes beauty is determined by racial, cultural, and environmental
influences. We as leaders in skin care must understand these differences and
adapt our practices accordingly. This article will focus on the differences in aging in
different ethnic populations and highlight procedures unique to skin of color.
Semin Cutan Med Surg 28:115-129 © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Purchase this article:

PURCHASE FOR $25

For unlimited access to all issues and articles:

SUBSCRIBE NOW LOG IN TO ACCOUNT

If you do not subscribe to Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, you may purchase instant access for your personal use. Terms and conditions will apply (see Copyright & Terms of Use). If you need assistance, contact Susan Hite ([email protected]).