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Wood's lamp test - of the scalp

Overview Risks Results

Wood’s lamp

Alternative Names: Black light test; Ultraviolet light test What the risks are: There are no risks, but avoid looking directly into the ultraviolet light, as you avoid looking into the sun. Special considerations: Text Continues Below Do not wash before the test, because that may cause a false-negative result. A room that is not dark enough may also alter results. Other materials may also glow. For example, some deodorants, make-ups, soaps, and even lint may be visible with the Wood's lamp. Not all infections can be detected with the light. Some species of fungi and bacteria do not contain fluorescent chemicals.

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