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What are they?
The most common skin scanners are instruments that use a specialized black light or filtered UV light and magnified mirror to view abnormalities in the superficial skin. Some special skin scanners use ultrasound technology that can analyze the full thickness of the skin.
What do they show?
A black light or filtered UV skin scanner analyzes the superficial layers of the skin. Using a skin scanner both you and the health care provider can view areas of sun damage, oily skin, dry skin, clogged pores and wrinkles. The results can be used to make appropriate recommendations for treatment.
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Sun damage appears as freckles or dark dots on the skin. The superficial damage is known as freckling or solar lentigines.
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Severe skin damage appears as sagging, wrinkled skin, which is evidence of deeper damage to supportive collage and elastin fibers called solar elastosis.
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Oily skin appears purple.
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Sunscreen appears as dark purple areas where applied.
Dry skin appears as white, flaky patches on the skin while clogged pores appear as orange dots normally over the nose and cheeks.
Frequently asked questions:
“Will the scanner damage my skin?”
They do not use harmful UVA or UVB rays so they do not damage your skin.
“Can you tell if I have skin cancer?”
Black light and filtered UV light skin scanners are not used to diagnose skin cancer but some skin scanners that utilize ultrasound technology can. See your dermatologist for more specialized analysis.
“I have dark skin, will the scanner pick up the changes in my skin?”
Yes, skin scanners can analyze all skin types although changes in skin of color may be seen in normal daylight.
Treatment of sun damaged skin
I know many of you are thinking, now what do I do about my sun damaged skin?
The first and foremost way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays is to use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 daily. Apply the sunscreen several times a day to provide adequate coverage as it can wear off during the day. Also use hats, long sleeved clothing, and shade to protect yourself from harmful rays, and avoid the sun during the peak hours of 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
For the damage that has already occurred, there are several treatments available including chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, and many more. Consult your dermatologist for analysis and treatment.
A special note on skin of color
If you are a person with darker skin, be sure to use the sun protective measures mentioned above and seek specialized treatment for your ethnic skin. Because skin of color is more prone to becoming darker or hyperpigmented, some treatments may result in scarring and/or discoloration if not administered appropriately. See your dermatologist.