Wood’s lamp examination

Examination overview

Some changes in the skin simply aren’t visible to the naked eye – or cannot be assessed with precision without additional diagnostics. This is precisely where a Wood’s lamp examination demonstrates its value.

It is a specialised dermatological examination that uses UV light to detect changes in pigmentation, infections and irregularities that are not visible during a standard examination.

Interestingly, different skin changes produce specific fluorescence patterns under a Wood’s lamp – allowing the doctor to reach a faster and more accurate diagnosis during the examination itself.

If you have unclear changes on your skin or pigmentation that cannot be precisely assessed – this examination often provides the key answers.


How is the examination performed?

The examination is carried out using a specialised UV lamp (Wood’s lamp) in a darkened room.

During the examination:

  • the skin is observed under UV light
  • pigmentation, infections and irregularities are analysed
  • changes that are not visible to the naked eye are identified

The examination is quick, entirely painless and non-invasive.


Who is the examination for?

The examination is recommended for those who:

  • have pigmentation changes (melasma, hyperpigmentation)
  • are suspected of having fungal or bacterial skin infections
  • have unclear changes that require further evaluation
  • wish to obtain a more precise diagnosis prior to treatment

When therapy fails to deliver the expected results – the reason often lies in an insufficiently precise diagnosis.


Our approach

Effective treatment always begins with an accurate diagnosis.

At our clinic we do not use the Wood’s lamp routinely – rather, we use it purposefully, when an additional layer of certainty is required in our assessment.

The examination is conducted by a consultant dermatologist who interprets the findings within the context of the patient’s overall clinical picture, never in isolation.

We do not rely on technology alone – but on a combination of experience and careful analysis.

We explain the findings to our patients and outline the next steps – because clarity dispels uncertainty.

If you wish to understand precisely what is happening with your skin – this is often the step that delivers a concrete answer.


Preparing for the examination

For the examination we recommend that you:

  • arrive without make-up or skincare products on the skin
  • do not apply creams immediately before your appointment
  • avoid harsh treatments for several days beforehand

Recovery and precautions

There is no recovery period following the examination – it is an entirely non-invasive method.


When are the results visible?

The results are visible immediately during the examination.

The patient receives:

  • a more precise diagnostic assessment
  • an explanation of the underlying causes of the changes
  • a recommendation for treatment or further steps

What our patients most often gain is – clarity.


Treatment combinations

Based on the findings, the next steps may include targeted therapies and technologies:

  • Candela Nordlys – for pigmentation and vascular concerns
  • CO2 Smaxel – for skin regeneration and renewal
  • Morpheus8 – for improving skin quality
  • Icoone Laser Med – for regeneration and microcirculation
  • HIFU – for skin tightening

In addition:

  • targeted medical therapies
  • dermocosmetics tailored to the condition of the skin
  • a follow-up and monitoring plan

Every recommendation is grounded in an accurate diagnosis – because without it, genuine results are simply not possible.

Price

For detailed information on payment options and treatment prices, please refer to the current price list of Poliklinika dr. Jelena Jakić.

Contact Us

Have a question? Send us an enquiry and we will be happy to respond.

    Need Help?

    Our team of specialists is at your disposal for all information and advice.
    Phone

    +385 1 2365 953
    +385 91 9117 093

    Email

    info@poliklinika-jakic.hr

    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions

    Here you’ll find answers to the questions our clients most often ask about our services and treatments.

    + What is a Wood's lamp examination and how does it work?
    A Wood's lamp uses specific UV light to reveal skin changes that are not visible to the naked eye. This method allows for a more detailed analysis of pigmentation, infections and overall skin condition.
    + What can be detected with this examination?
    Pigmentation irregularities, bacterial and fungal infections, oily skin, dehydration and other dermatological changes that require targeted therapy.
    + Why is this examination important before aesthetic treatments?
    Because it enables an accurate diagnosis of the skin's condition, which helps to avoid unsuitable treatments and achieve better results.
    + Is the examination painful or invasive?
    No - the examination is entirely painless, non-invasive and takes only a few minutes.
    + Will I receive recommendations after the examination?
    Yes - the examination forms the basis for a personalised treatment and skincare plan.
    + Can it be used to monitor the results of treatment?
    Yes - it allows for the objective tracking of changes and the effectiveness of treatments over time.
    + Why does the Wood's lamp remain an important tool in dermatology?
    Because it provides quick, accurate and reliable diagnostics that significantly enhance the quality of therapeutic decisions.