Disparities in Racial Representation in Cosmetic Dermatology Clinical Trials

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

7-1-2026

Publication Title

J Am Acad Dermatol

Keywords

Dermatology

Abstract

Despite growing interest in cosmetic procedures across all demographics in the United States, cosmetic dermatology research remains skewed toward White individuals. Patients with skin of color are consistently underrepresented in literature, textbook images, and research studies. Without diverse participation in clinical trials, disparities among non-White populations cannot be addressed. This study aims to characterize racial representation in US cosmetic dermatology clinical trials. ClinicalTrials.gov was queried for trials completed from 2000-2023 using search terms “hair removal,” “hyperhidrosis,” “rhytides,” “melasma,” “skin cosmetics,” “skin laxity,” and “solar lentigines.” Percentages of participation were recorded for American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN), Asian, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NHPI), Black, White, multiple, and unknown race. ANOVA testing revealed significant differences in representation (p<0.001). Of 114 completed trials, 76 (66.7%) reported race. On average, participants were 76.04% White, 6.60% Black, 5.87% Asian, 0.97% multiracial, 0.39% AIAN, 0.16% NHPI, and 6.91% unknown. Non-White minorities were underrepresented compared to 2020 US census data, especially for Black (6.6% of trial participants vs 12.4% of US population) and multiracial (0.97% vs 10.2%). Thirty trials enrolled >90% White participants. Overall, cosmetic dermatology clinical trials demonstrate significant underrepresentation of non-White racial groups. Diverse participation in trials is essential to ensuring generalizability of results, safety of treatments, and equity among patients seeking cosmetic dermatology care. Future research should explore strategies for increased recruitment of underrepresented populations and further investigate racial disparities in specific areas of cosmetic dermatology.

Volume

95

Issue

1

First Page

AB160

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