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Patch tests are an easy way to help predict if you will have a negative initial reaction to a new product. It is recommended to perform a patch test before incorporating a new product into your routine
We have outlined a general method for conducting your own patch test based on the type of product.
Please note that the patch test is only for determining initial irritation reactions to products and does not guarantee similar results when applied to other areas of the body (including the face) or after continuous use. It does not account for underlying conditions and should not be used for the diagnosis of hypersensitivity or allergic contact dermatitis. If you are concerned about starting a new product, please consult a dermatologist prior to use
Epicutant test (patch test) is used for suspected contact allergy.
During the test, tape strips with a number of substances are applied to the back. There is a basic series of about 30 substances that are common to be allergic to. The strips remain for 48 hours, then read off after 3 and 7 days respectively. One then looks for papules, vesicles and blisters. In connection with reading, a relevance assessment of findings is made.
It is inappropriate to make the test unnecessary for young people.
Dermatoscopy is a diagnostic performed with the Dermatoscope - a magnifying glass with light source and lenses. Reflection from the skin surface, pigments and blood vessels is visualized in a pattern and color which allows a skin analysis.
Dermatoscopy is best evaluated to identify melanoma. A method that is extremely effective and often referred to as Chaos and Clues.If the lesion is asymmetric (chaotic) in pattern or specific color, one should suspect melanoma.
Yellow: Keratin
Black: Stratum corneum melanin, the superficial layers of the epidermis or pervasive throughout the epidermis with or without dermal involvement
Brown: Melanin under the startum corneum, especially in the dermoepithelial transition and in the papillary dermis
White: Lack of pigment (melanin): Atrophy / fibrosis / collagen
Gray: Free melanin or melananophages in the papillary dermis
Red: Blood
Blue: Melanin in deep dermis.
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Woods lamp is used to diagnose skin diseases, determine the skin type and the presence of inflammatory skin infections. Based on these data, skin care and cosmetics are provided. Woods lamp also highlights hypopigmenting lots. It can help chart the extent of vitiligo. Woods lamp is particularly suitable with skin phototype I and II (according to Fitzpatrick Skala) where vitiligo propagation can be more difficult to determine in daylight.
The study should be carried out in a completely darkened room without other light sources.
Various microbiological agents can provide different fluorescence patterns with different colors.
Do you know which skin type you have according to Fitzpatrick Skala? Test yourself!
Knowing your skin type is important as it affects the choice of skin care products, sunscreen, and ways to remove body hair.
There are many classifications of skin types, but the most common is the Fitzpatrick classification. It builds on how the skin reacts to exposure to sunlight. The Fitzpatrick scale has six skin types.
The Fitzpatrick scale is still a recognized tool for dermatological studies of human skin pigmentation.
