What is essential to do when using a woods lamp?

Using a woods lamp is most effective in a dark room because the lamp emits ultraviolet (UV) light, which requires low ambient light levels to properly observe the fluorescent reactions of the skin or other surfaces being examined. In well-lit areas, the surrounding light can interfere with the visibility of the fluorescence, making it difficult to interpret the results accurately.

In addition, while UV protective glasses are important for safeguarding the eyes from UV exposure, the primary factor for obtaining clear results with a woods lamp is the darkness of the environment in which it is used. This ensures that the specific conditions necessary for examining certain skin conditions, fungal infections, or pigmentation disorders are met, thus allowing the practitioner to clearly identify any patterns or reactions that may illuminate the underlying issues.