Oregon Esthetician State Board

Which color indicates the presence of dead skin cells under a Wood's lamp?

1. Blue white

2. White spots

3. Yellow or orange

4. Light violet or purple

The correct answer is: White spots

The presence of dead skin cells under a Wood's lamp is indicated by white spots. In the context of esthetics, a Wood's lamp is utilized for skin analysis, particularly to identify various skin conditions, including the buildup of dead skin cells. When the lamp is used, areas with accumulated dead skin appear as white spots due to the reflective quality of the keratinized tissue, which is a protein found in skin cells. Understanding the specific color changes observed under a Wood's lamp can assist estheticians in diagnosing and determining the appropriate treatments for their clients. The white spots signal an area where exfoliation may be necessary, leading to smoother and healthier skin. Other colors observed under a Wood's lamp can indicate different skin conditions or concerns, thus it is essential for practitioners to accurately interpret these colors during skin assessments.