Skin of Color Society Unveils Global Council to Enhance Dermatology Care

CHICAGO, Sept. 1, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) has unveiled the SOCS Global Council, a landmark initiative uniting 22 international dermatology organizations committed to advancing the field of skin of color dermatology. This strategic move aims to foster collaboration, address critical challenges, and enhance educational and research efforts.

The SOCS Global Council, co-chaired by Dr. Zakiya Pressley Rice and Dr. Michelle Rodrigues, brings together leading dermatological associations from around the globe. The council's primary objectives include:

- Enhancing international collaboration and knowledge-sharing. - Improving the quality of dermatological care for patients with skin of color. - Promoting educational initiatives, research, and event coordination. - Sharing strategies and resources to improve patient care and workforce development. - Strengthening the visibility and support of its member organizations.

Among the participating organizations are the Asian Dermatological Association, the Caribbean Dermatology Association, the Chinese Society of Dermatology, and the Mexican Academy of Dermatology, among others. The council's initiatives include the development of consensus statements on treatment evidence and risks, as well as recommendations for SOCS participation in international conferences.

Notable upcoming SOCS Scientific Sessions include: - IMCAS Americas in Sao Paulo, Brazil on March 13, 2026. - The Australasian College of Dermatologists in Melbourne, Australia on May 16, 2026. - Dubai Derma in Dubai, UAE on September 10, 2026. - EADV Congress 2026 in Vienna, Austria on September 30, 2026.

In support of global inclusivity, SOCS has established the Global Access Membership Fund. This fund offers tiered global membership dues based on World Bank country income classifications, making membership more accessible to dermatologists in resource-limited countries.

Dr. Rebecca Vasquez, current SOCS President, emphasized the importance of the Global Council in her statement: "We warmly invite the international dermatology community to join the Council in strengthening meaningful global collaboration, expanding opportunities for education and participation, and ensuring diverse perspectives are represented across our organizations."

Dr. Vasquez’s vision for the Global Council was built on the foundations laid by past SOCS leaders, including Dr. Seemal R. Desai, who fostered international collaborations, and Dr. Andrew F. Alexis, who envisioned a SOCS-led council. Dr. Nada Elbuluk played a crucial role in officially launching the Global Council in February 2025 and expanding SOCS's international presence through multiple symposia.

The SOCS Global Council is supported by Novartis, a leading pharmaceutical company. The Skin of Color Society, founded in 2004 by Dr. Susan C. Taylor, is the world's leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of skin of color dermatology. With a mission to achieve health equity and excellence in patient care, the society has mentored hundreds of medical professionals and awarded numerous research grants.