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The Skin of Color Society's Impactful Year of 2025

The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) has reported a groundbreaking year in 2025, highlighting crucial advancements in the field of dermatology focused on skin of color. Founded in 2004 by Dr. Susan C. Taylor, SOCS has expanded remarkably, now boasting over 1,330 members across 22 countries. This organization dedicates itself to promoting excellence and equity in dermatologic care, and its achievements in the past year demonstrate its commitment to this mission.

Major Accomplishments of 2025

The year was marked by signature programs and initiatives that span across research, education, mentorship, leadership, and advocacy. Within this framework, various milestones were achieved, reflecting SOCS's determination to elevate care for patients of color.

1. Meeting the Challenge Summit

One of the standout events was the 3rd Meeting the Challenge Summit, held from December 5-6, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This event aimed at reshaping dermatology clinical trials by prioritizing inclusivity and patient-centered approaches. With more than 115 stakeholders converging at the summit, experts provided invaluable insights on how to reflect the needs of diverse communities in clinical research. The support received from industry leaders, including Johnson & Johnson, Lilly, and Novartis, has been instrumental for this initiative.

2. 8th Annual SOCS Media Day

On November 18, 2025, SOCS hosted an engaging Media Day that brought together editors and reporters from various fields. Titled "Trends and Truths in Skin of Color—Setting the Record Straight in the Age of Misinformation," this virtual event featured discussions on topics ranging from aesthetic procedures to skin cancer. With the support of major sponsors like EltaMD Skincare and Johnson & Johnson, the event successfully disseminated essential information to a broader audience.

3. My Best Winter Skin Campaign

Kicking off its third year, the My Best Winter Skin campaign captured record interest and participation. Launched on October 24, this initiative saw 505 volunteers conducting 105 community outreach events, educating the public with dermatologist-developed skincare tips. This marked a significant increase in community engagement, further emphasizing SOCS’s role as a resource for skincare knowledge.

4. Center for Leadership's Learning Collaborative

In July 2025, the SOCS Center for Leadership launched its inaugural Learning Collaborative Leadership Training, designed to empower its members. This initiative, which draws on the work of Kouzes and Posner, focused on exemplary leadership principles and gathered notable participants, including industry panelists and SOCS members.

5. Mentorship Programs

SOCS continued to establish mentorship and training opportunities for its members. A noteworthy program was conducted in collaboration with the National Medical Association, which involved training and mentorship for clinical investigators. Attendees learned essential guidelines for engaging in clinical trials, focusing on site perspectives and participant recruitment, laying the groundwork for professional growth.

6. Expanding Global Presence

Under the leadership of Dr. Nada Elbuluk, SOCS has actively pursued global outreach, hosting its scientific sessions at the Dubai Derma conference and the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology's Congress in Paris. This focus on international collaboration is emblematic of SOCS's dedication to ensuring inclusive dermatological practices worldwide.

Looking Ahead

As SOCS prepares for 2026, they continue to emphasize health equity and patient-centered care in dermatology. The upcoming 22nd Annual SOCS Scientific Symposium scheduled for March 26, 2026, will build on the past year's achievements and establish new goals for the organization. In reflecting on the accomplishments of 2025, Dr. Nada Elbuluk expressed gratitude for the organization’s expanded global family, emphasizing the collective effort in advancing specialty care for patients with skin of color. 2025 proves to be not only a year of progress but a stepping stone towards an even brighter future in dermatology.