Oregon Esthetician State Board

What color under a Wood's lamp signifies hyperpigmentation or sun damage?

1. Yellow, pink, or orange

2. Brown

3. Light violet or purple

4. Blue white

The correct answer is: Brown

When using a Wood's lamp for skin analysis, a brown color indicates the presence of hyperpigmentation or sun damage. This happens because areas of increased pigmentation—whether from sun exposure or conditions like melasma—absorb UV light at different rates compared to normal skin. The darker the area, the more pronounced the brown color appears under the lamp, signifying that there has been a reaction to UV exposure that has led to increased melanin production in the skin. This particular reaction is valuable for estheticians as it helps to identify specific skin conditions that may require targeted treatment or protection strategies. Recognizing these signs is essential for creating personalized skincare regimens for clients, particularly those who may be concerned about sun damage and its long-term effects on their skin health. Understanding how to interpret the Wood's lamp readings can greatly enhance the services provided in an esthetician's practice.