The Benefits of Using a Dermatoscope

The Benefits of Using a Dermatoscope

When it comes checking your skin at consultation, the benefits of using a dermatascope especially for moles and certain blemishes, is crucial to blemish removal. That’s where a dermatoscope comes in. This is a handheld tool that attached to the phone in some cases and allows the trained eye to examine the skin in far greater detail than the naked eye ever could. In my case I use it to simply investigate further blemishes I am looking at or withing my mole/blemish checks in order to send across to the dermalogist a full picture of what I am looking at for diagnosis.

A dermatoscope uses polarised light and magnification to reveal the deeper layers of the skin. It allows them to see specific patterns, colours, and structures beneath the surface and without it these details aren’t neccessarily visible. This can be crucial for identifying early signs of skin cancer, such as melanoma, as well as distinguishing harmless moles from ones that may need monitoring or removal.

When examining dermatoscopic images, dermatologists look at several key features:

• Symmetry and shape: Is the mole/blemish even, or irregular?

• Borders: Are the edges smooth or jagged?

• Colour: Are there multiple colours like black, brown, red, or blue?

• Structure and pattern: Is there a clear pattern, or something unusual beneath the surface?

• Change over time: Has the mole/blemish changed in size, shape, or colour?

The ability to record and compare images over time is another huge benefit. These images will be stored and therefore checks later down the line can be done to monitor for change. It can sometimes months or even years before visible signs appear.

Ultimately, using a dermatoscope provides clarity, accuracy, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a mole you’ve had for years or a new blemish that’s caught your attention, a dermatoscopic check can be an essential step in preventing skin cancer.