Skin of Color Representation in Laser Therapy-Based Clinical Trials

Abstract

Skin of Color Representation in Laser Therapy-Based Clinical Trials T here have been extraordinary advancements in the use of laser treatments for dermatologic conditions. 1,2 However, inclusion of participants with skin of color (SOC) in laser-based clinical trials is largely understudied. 2 When included, SOC is often defined through self-reported measures of race and/or ethnicity that have often been shown to be nonspecific and inacurrate. 3 Fitzpatrick skin type (FST), meanwhile, is an objective measure of how individuals respond to sunlight and has become an essential measure in the consideration of laser therapy. Herein, demographic data for laser-based clinical trials were collected and the trial participants' FST was analyzed. MethodsClinicaltrials.gov was searched using the terms "laser," "dermatology," and "skin" for trials conducted from January 1, 2008 to November 1, 2022. Trials included were those completed in the United States (U.S.), had published results, and used laser therapy for a dermatologic condition. Excluded trials included those that had international sites, did not have finalized results, or were using laser-based therapy for nondermatologic conditions. Of analyzed trials, dermatologic condition, specific laser used, and FST of participants within the trial were recorded.