L’Oréal USA has announced it is giving a $100,000 research grant to the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) intended to assist five early-career dermatologists and scientists in furthering their academic careers and promoting the development of innovative ideas in clinical and translational research.
L’Oréal's Research & Innovation division is devoted to promoting inclusion and equity in dermatology research, addressing disparities in clinical trials, fostering diversity in the dermatological workforce, and conducting scientific research to develop safe and effective solutions for skin pathologies.
The SOCS Research Committee is responsible for reviewing grant applications, making funding recommendations and monitoring the grant program.
The committee will award five grants of $20,000 to eligible dermatologists and scientists who are SOCS members.
Recipients will be announced at the 19th Annual SOCS Symposium in New Orleans on Thursday, March 16, in conjunction with the 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting.
Valerie M. Harvey, M.D., MPH, FAAD, president, Skin of Color Society, said, "We are incredibly grateful for L'Oréal’s support in advancing skin of color dermatology research--a vital part of the Skin of Color Society's mission. This funding will provide crucial resources for young dermatologists to further their academic careers and improve the lives of those with skin of color through research and innovation. We look forward to seeing the impact of this grant program in the field of dermatology and the skin of color community."
Sanford Browne, president of research and innovation, North America, L’Oréal, said, "We at L’Oréal are committed to helping bridge the gap for people of color and the dermatological conditions that affect them, as they are often underrepresented in research and healthcare. Through the dedicated work of our research and innovation team, we have been able to advance science and solutions that benefit diverse populations for many years. We are proud to support the mission of the Skin of Color Society and dermatologists dedicated to improving the lives of those with skin of color. We are optimistic about the impact of this funding on the field of dermatology and look forward to witnessing its results."