Makeup: Does it Affect Results of Skin Cancer Screenings?

Makeup and Skin Cancer Screenings – Important Facts

The Problem with Makeup During Skin Cancer Screenings

As a dermatology patient, it is important to prioritize your skin health and take necessary precautions to prevent skin cancer. One of the most important steps in this process is to attend regular skin cancer screenings. However, some patients may not realize that wearing makeup during a screening can actually hinder the accuracy of the results. In this blog post, we will discuss why it is important to not wear makeup during a skin cancer screening.

Firstly, makeup can obscure the visibility of any irregularities on the skin. During a screening, your dermatologist will carefully examine your skin for any signs of skin cancer, including changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of moles or other areas of skin. However, makeup can make it difficult for your dermatologist to see these irregularities, as it may cover up the very features that they are looking for.

Secondly, makeup can alter the appearance of the skin. Certain types of makeup, such as foundation or concealer, can actually change the color or texture of the skin. This can make it difficult for your dermatologist to accurately assess the condition of your skin. Additionally, makeup can also interfere with any tools or equipment that your dermatologist may use during the screening, such as a dermatoscope, which relies on clear and unobstructed views of the skin.

Lastly, wearing makeup during a skin cancer screening can lead to false-negative results. If your dermatologist is unable to see any irregularities on the skin due to makeup, they may miss early signs of skin cancer. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, which can be especially harmful in the case of aggressive skin cancers such as melanoma.

In conclusion, it is important to not wear makeup during a skin cancer screening. Doing so can compromise the accuracy of the results and potentially delay diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. If you are planning to attend a skin cancer screening, it is best to go with a clean and makeup-free face. By prioritizing your skin health and following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are doing everything possible to prevent skin cancer and stay healthy.

Take the first step and schedule a full skin cancer screening for you and your family members with Dr. Dupati today… and remember to put your makeup on afterward!

Related post: Why A Skin Exam / Skin Cancer Screening Could Save Your Life (Apollo Dermatology)