What the Wood's lamp reveals
Bright milky-white fluorescence in vitiligo (confirms depigmentation extent before treatment), coral-red glow in erythrasma, blue-green in pseudomonas infection, golden-yellow in tinea versicolor, and accentuation of melasma depth (epidermal vs dermal).
Why it matters
It changes the treatment plan. Epidermal melasma responds to topicals; dermal melasma needs lasers. Vitiligo extent on Wood's lamp guides phototherapy and surgical eligibility. The test takes minutes and avoids unnecessary biopsies.
How the test is done
You enter a small darkened consultation room. The dermatologist holds the Wood's lamp 10–15 cm from the skin and observes fluorescence patterns. Findings are documented with photographs.
Combined with trichoscopy and dermoscopy
At our Gachibowli clinic, the Wood's lamp is part of a complete dermatology workup, alongside dermoscopy and biopsy when needed — saving repeat visits.