In what setting should a woods lamp be used?

A woods lamp should be used in a dark room on cleansed skin to ensure accurate results. This device utilizes ultraviolet (UV) light to reveal various skin conditions, such as pigmentation issues, bacterial infections, or the presence of oil and hydration levels in the skin.

Using the woods lamp in a dark setting allows for the enhanced visibility of the fluorescence produced by different skin types and conditions when exposed to the UV light. If the environment is too brightly lit, it can obscure the subtle changes and details that the woods lamp is designed to highlight, making it difficult for the esthetician to accurately assess the skin's condition.

Additionally, applying the woods lamp on cleansed skin ensures that the surface is free of makeup, lotions, or any other products that could interfere with the readings provided by the lamp. This practice increases the reliability of the evaluations and aids in formulating an effective treatment plan tailored to the client's specific skin needs.