Wood's Lamp Skin Analysis

Skin Analysis Equipment

• Skin analysis equipment includes Wood's lamps.

Wood's Lamp Exam

• A Wood's lamp examination is a simple test that identifies skin, scalp, and hair conditions.
• It uses long-wave ultraviolet (UV) light.
• The UV light makes certain cells show color or appear fluorescent.
• Robert Wood, an American physicist, developed the Wood's lamp.

What Wood's Lamp Can Diagnose

• Wood's lamps can diagnose abnormal pigmentation like melasma and vitiligo.
• Bacterial infections, including Pseudomonas and Corynebacterium, can also be diagnosed.
• Other conditions/infections include Corneal abrasion, Porphyria, scabies, head lice, and skin fungus infections such as ringworm, tinea capitis or tinea versicolor.
• Skin imperfections like acne, aging skin, and milia can also be diagnosed.

How Wood's Lamp Works

• A Wood’s lamp emits ultraviolet black light, which is not visible to the naked human eye.
• It slightly emits light on the violet spectrum, which is visible to the naked human eye.
• Cells appear differently when UV light shines on the skin or another surface.

What Wood's Lamp Colors Mean

• Normal, healthy human skin under UV light looks bluish.
• White indicates areas of thick skin or clothing lint.
• Yellow indicates oily skin.
• Bright blue-white might indicate hypopigmentation or depigmentation.
• Brown might identify hyperpigmentation.
• Blue-green might reveal specific fungal infections.
• Coral pink may suggest a bacterial infection.
• Red may mean porphyria.

Prep for Wood's Light Exam

• Before a Wood's lamp examination, skin has to be clean but not recently washed.
• Makeup, deodorant, creams, or other products should not be applied to your skin or scalp.

Dermoscopy

• Dermoscopy is a noninvasive skin imaging technique for diagnosing skin lesions.
• The dermatoscope is a handheld device for visualizing subsurface colors, structures, and patterns in skin lesions not visible to the naked eye.
• It provides magnification, typically 10x.
• A dermatoscope consists of a light source, achromatic lens, and contact plate.

Uses of Dermoscopy

• Dermoscopy is used for pigmented structures, hemorrhagic areas, vascular structures.
• It is also used for nonpigmented skin disorders including inflammatory diseases, infections/infestations, and amelanotic disorders.

Magnifying Lamps

• Magnifying glasses, or magnifying lamps, are simple optical devices for viewing the details of objects with magnification.
• Magnifying glasses are sometimes regarded as loupes.
• A loupe is used at a close distance from the eye, while magnifying glasses (or hand lenses) get held at a larger distance.
• The magnifying lamp contains two main functions: magnification and illumination.
• Magnification serves to magnify small or detailed objects.
• Illumination equips the lamp with a light source that intensifies the lighting on the object, aiding in clarity and visibility

Skin Analysis

• Skin analysis means assessing physical characteristics to identify skin types and conditions for skincare recommendations.
• Methods of skin analysis include visual inspection, touch tests, device-assisted analysis, and diagnostic tests.
• Tools for accurate assessments include Wood's lamps, skin moisture analyzers, skin analyzers, digital facial scanners and pH meters.

Skin Moisture Analyzer

• Skin moisture analyzer determines the skin's hydration level
• A skin moisture analyzer measures moisture content through a non-invasive process.
• The commonly used formula to express hydration levels is: Hydration Level=Moisture Content \Skin Weight ×100

Skin Analyzer

• Skin analyzers are advanced devices that provide a comprehensive evaluation of the skin.
• Skin analyzer reports include: Pore size, wrinkle depth, sebum production, and elasticity measure

Digital Facial Scanner

• A digital facial scanner uses high-resolution imaging to create a detailed map of the skin's surface.
• Digital facial scanners can identify texture issues, uneven pigmentation, and acne scarring.
• They leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze skin conditions, increasing the accuracy of assessments.

Skin Conditions

• Primary causes of uneven skin tone, texture, and wrinkles include age, genetics, acne, enlarged pores, photoaging, hormones, and improper skin care.
• Young healthy skin is well-hydrated and firm, with a smooth and soft texture and luminosity.
• Skin cell turnover slows with age, resulting in a buildup of dead skin cells, resulting in dull skin and clogged pores.

Skin Tone

• Skin tone is the pigmentation based on the amount of melanin.
• It is determined by heredity, but also affected by sun, smoking, medications, skin conditions, hormones and aging.
• Young healthy skin is even-toned, bright and glowing.

Fine Lines

• Fine lines are subtle creases or wrinkles that appear on the skin with age.
• These lines emerge due to a combination of factors like reduced collagen and elastin, sun exposure, and facial expressions.
• They commonly occur around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.
• Wrinkles go deeper and are more pronounced, resulting from collagen breakdown and muscle movements, becoming more visible over time.

Factors for Fine Lines

• Repeated facial expressions, sun exposure, dehydration, lack of sleep, and smoking are factors for wrinkles

Treatments for Fine Lines

• Skincare ingredients to treat fine lines:
  • Retinoids: (Vitamin A) derivatives for collagen and elastin production.
  • Antioxidants: Vitamin C, ubiquinone, resveratrol, green tea, and vitamin E neutralize free radicals to prevent cellular and DNA damage.
  • Peptides: Small protein molecules can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen.
  • UV radiation causes DNA damage, increases free radical production, and causes signs of skin aging.
  • Sunscreen protects the skin and prevents UV damage and collagen breakdown.
  • Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin help draw in moisture, plumping the skin and improving the appearance of wrinkles.

Non-Invasive Treatments

• Hayfu uses high-frequency, high-intensity ultrasound technology to heat tissue below the surface to stimulate collagen production and improve skin quality.
• CO2 lasers improve wrinkles by resurfacing skin and remodeling collagen.
• Therapies like red light, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and microneedling ultrasound and radiofrequency stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture.

Skin Elasticity

• Skin elasticity refers to your skin's ability to stretch and bounce back into place and plump.
• As skin loses its elasticity, it starts to sag and wrinkle.
• Factors leading to loss of elasticity include aging, environment, lifestyle and poor skincare.
• Because collagen and elastin are located in the dermis, they are affected by the environment.
• These proteins can be damaged by the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, as well as by smoking and pollution.
• Sleeping in makeup and other products can cause clogged pores, leading to breakouts and a buildup of oil.
• Constant pressing or tugging on delicate skin around your eyes can also result in the loss of elasticity.

Skin Elasticity Diet

• To make collagen, your body needs amino acids found in poultry, fish, beef, dairy products, eggs, and beans.
• Collagen production also requires vitamin C from citrus fruits, red bell peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and broccoli.
• In addition to protein and vitamin C, our bodies need zinc and copper to produce collagen, which can be obtained from meat, nuts, beans, and whole grains.
• A collagen supplement may help to preserve skin elasticity and prevent wrinkles.
• Exercise, sleep routine, supplements, skin products, and hydration also help

Exfoliation

• Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum) to encourage skin renewal, improve texture, and enhance product absorption

Types of Exfoliation

• Physical (Mechanical) Exfoliation: Uses abrasive particles or tools to manually slough off dead skin cells.
• Some examples are scrubs (with sugar, salt, or microbeads), brushes, exfoliating gloves, or sponges.
• Best for thick or oily skin types but not ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin (can cause micro-tears).
• Chemical Exfoliation: Uses acids or enzymes to dissolve dead skin cells gently.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Water-soluble (e.g., glycolic, lactic acid) – good for dry/sun-damaged skin.
• Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Oil-soluble (e.g., salicylic acid) – penetrates pores, ideal for acne-prone skin.
• Enzymes: (e.g., Papain from papaya, bromelain from pineapple) – gentle for sensitive skin.
• Good for mostly all skin types, especially acne-prone or aging skin.
• Tools that cause exfoliation are derma rollers, microdermabrasion machines, or sonic cleansing brushes.
  • Those seeking deeper exfoliation should use these carefully to avoid irritation.

Frequency of Exfoliation

• Normal/ Oily Skin: 2-3 times per week.
• Dry/ Sensitive Skin: 1-2 times per week (prefer chemical exfoliants).
• Acne-Prone Skin: BHAs 2-3 times weekly (avoid harsh scrubs).

Benefits of Exfoliation

• Smoother, brighter complexion Unclogs pores, reduces acne
• Enhances skincare product absorption
• Stimulates collagen production (anti-aging benefits)

Chemical Exfoliation

• Professional chemical peels are high-strength treatments performed by dermatologists or licensed estheticians.
• These professional treatments are for addressing deep skin concerns like wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and severe texture issues.
• The results of these stronger peels are dramatic and long-term

Types of Professional Chemical Peels

• Superficial Peels (Light): Epidermis only
• Glycolic Acid (20-50%)
• Lactic Acid (10-30%)
• Salicylic Acid (20-30%) -Downtime: 0-2 days (mild flaking)
• Best for: Mild acne, dullness/texture maintenance treatments
• Medium Peels: Epidermis + upper dermis
  • TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid, 15-35%)
  • Jessner's Peel (Salicylic + Lactic + Resorcinol)
  • Downtime: 5-7 days (peeling, redness)
  • Best for: Moderate wrinkles, acne scars and sun damage
• Deep Peels: Mid-to-deep dermis
  • Phenol Peel (highest strength, medical-grade)
  • Downtime: 2+ weeks (intense peeling, swelling)
  • Best For deep wrinkles, severe sun damage and precancerous lesions

Benefits of Professional Peels

• Dramatic improvement in skin texture & tone
• Stimulates collagen for long-term anti-aging
• Fades deep pigmentation (melasma, PIH)
• Unclogs pores better than at-home treatments

Steps of Professional Peels

• Skin assessment & peel selection. -Skin is cleansed & degreased (sometimes pre-treated with retinoids).
• Peel is applied in layers (tingling/burning sensation).
• Some peels are self-neutralizing while others require a solution. Peel residue must be neutralized
• Post-Care – Cold compress, soothing creams, and strict SPF use.

Post-Peel

• Avoid sun (strict SPF 50+)
• Use gentle cleansers & moisturizers (no actives).
• No picking! Let skin shed naturally.
• Stay hydrated (helps healing).

Who to Avoid Professional Peels

• Active cold sores/herpes (peels can trigger outbreaks).
• Recent Accutane use (wait 6+ months).
• Open wounds/eczema/rosacea flare-ups.
• Pregnant/breastfeeding women (some acids unsafe).

Recommended Peels

• Acne & Blackheads: Salicylic Acid 20-30% or Jessner's Peel
• Hyperpigmentation: TCA 15-20% or Mandelic Acid Peel
• Fine Lines: Glycolic Acid 50-70%
• Deep Wrinkles/Scars: TCA 25-35% or Phenol Peel

Exfoliation Tools

• Microdermabrasion is a popular exfoliation treatment.
• It removes dead skin cells using fine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and help with acne.

Types of Microdermabrasion

• Crystal Microdermabrasion uses fine aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate crystals to buff away dead skin. A suction device removes the crystals and exfoliated skin.
• Best for Normal to oily skin, mild acne scars, uneven texture.
• Diamond-Tip Microdermabrasion uses A diamond-coated wand to exfoliates while and a suction removes dead skin.
• Gentler than crystal, with no risk of crystal residue,.
• Best for sensitive skin, rosacea-prone skin, fine lines.
• At-Home Microdermabrasion Devices are less powerful than professional treatments but safer for regular use.
• Microdermabrasion promotes smoother, brighter complexion as well as reduces fine lines & mild acne scars.
• It improves product absorption, minimizes clogged pores & blackheads plus stimulates collagen production

Microdermabrasion Precautions

• Active acne, eczema, or rosacea flare-ups, broken skin, sunburn, or infections or sensitive skin should avoid treatment.
• Professional treatment: Every 2-4 weeks
• At-home devices: 1-

Microdermabrasion Aftercare

• Apply a hydrating serum (hyaluronic acid) and moisturizer.
• To avoid retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or harsh actives for 24-48 hours.
• Always use SPF 30+ (skin is more sun-sensitive post-treatment).
• Possible side effects include redness, slight peeling, or tingling. Treatment should subside after a few hours.
• Overdoing it can cause irritation or broken capillaries.

Exfoliating Brushes

• Exfoliating brushes help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and boost circulation.

Types of Exfoliating Brushes

• Manual Facial Brushes have soft natural or synthetic fibers for gentle daily exfoliation on normal to dry skin.
• Electric/ Sonic Cleansing Brushes have rotating or oscillating silicone/nylon bristles that are best for deep cleansing all skin types.
• Silicone Cleansing Brushes have soft silicone nubs (antibacterial). Best for sensitive, acne-prone, or reactive skin.
• Dry Brushing (For Body) brushes have firm natural bristles (boar, cactus fibers), which best work for body exfoliation & lymphatic drainage.

How to Use Exfoliating Brushes

• Cleanse First by Using a gentle cleanser, not a physical scrub.
• Gentle Pressure - Let the brush do the work, don't scrub aggressively.
• Frequency:
• Sensitive Skin: 1-2x/week
• Oily/Combination Skin: 3-4x/week Sanitize Regularly - Rinse well & let air-dry to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Brush toward the heart in long strokes before showering, then follow with moisturizer or body oil.
• Use 2-3x/week max to avoid irritation.

Who to Avoid Exfoliating Brushes

• People with active acne or rosacea should avoid as it can spread bacteria or worsen redness.
• Broken skin, sunburn, or eczema flare-ups are also a contraindication.
• Brushes are not recommended for those with very thin or sensitive skin because of chemical exfoliation instead.