What not to do before dermatology appt?

Author: Prof. Skylar Krajcik  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Tip: Want to ensure things go smoothly at the doctor's office and help your dermatologist perform their job thoroughly? Come to your appointment NOT wearing any jewelry, make up, nail polish and other cosmetics, and if you have long hair, wear it loosely.

What not to do before a dermatologist appointment?

Nail polish, and the chemicals that make it up, interfere with this. It is important to have clear nails so that the dermatologist can look for any clues and signals. Second, don't mess up the regular skin care routine. It is a good idea to go about the average morning skin regime, just without adding makeup.

Should I wash my face before a dermatology appointment?

Shower beforehand to ensure skin is clean and free of anything that could interfere with a thorough examination. Remove makeup and nail polish so the dermatologist can examine your skin and nails.

How do I prepare for a dermatology exam?

Dermatology At Henry Ford
  1. Don't wear makeup. ...
  2. Don't wear nail polish. ...
  3. Bring a brush to fix your hair afterward. ...
  4. Wearing self-tanner? ...
  5. Be your own advocate. ...
  6. On that note, you don't need to cancel if you're menstruating. ...
  7. Make a list of suspicious spots you want to ask the dermatologist about.

Should I wash my hair before going to the dermatologist?

Washing your hair before the analysis ensures that the scalp is free from excess oils, dirt, and styling products, providing a clear and accurate view of the scalp and hair follicles. This cleanliness allows professionals, such as dermatologists or trichologists, to better assess the condition of your scalp and hair.

Day in the Life of a Dermatology Resident Doctor

What not to say to a dermatologist?

Here are some common lies that people tell their dermatologists that you really shouldn't.
  • #1. “I Wear Sunscreen Everyday.” Sunscreen can be tricky. ...
  • #3. “I've Had This Mole Forever.” ...
  • #5. “I Wash My Face Every Day.” ...
  • #8. “I'm Not On Any Medications/Don't Take Any Supplements.”

Do you take bra off at dermatologist?

Changing into a patient gown

You will need to change into a gown for this examination. Please remove your bra and underwear unless you are incredibly uncomfortable about it. Skin cancer can occur on areas of your skin not ordinarily exposed to sunlight.

What not to do before a skin check?

Avoid wearing makeup and nail polish to your skin screening

Come to your skin screening without wearing makeup or nail polish. Because they cover up areas of your skin where cancer can occur, it's best to avoid these products the day of your exam to ensure your dermatologist can do a thorough screening.

Do female dermatologists examine the groin area?

Dermatologists should consistently offer a genital examination to all patients who present for a routine TBSE. Patients should be provided with adequate education to assess their comfort level for the skin examination.

Can I wear deodorant to a dermatologist?

Lotions, deodorant, and self-tanner: You can continue your regular routine with these products. They do not impact your provider's ability to perform the exam.

Should I shower before going to the dermatologist?

It is always best to give your dermatologist a clear view of your skin. Take a shower before your appointment. Wear comfortable clothing so you can slip easily into an examination gown. Do not use nail polish or makeup, which can hide potentially critical evidence your doctor needs to find.

What to wear to a dermatology appt?

For a thorough examination, it's advisable to wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the areas you want the dermatologist to examine. This may include shorts for a leg examination or a loose shirt for a back examination, depending on your specific concerns.

How to get the most out of a dermatologist appointment?

We have five tips to help you prepare for your appointment to ensure you get the most out of it.
  1. Don't Wear Makeup or Nail Polish. ...
  2. Wear Loose Clothing. ...
  3. Bring Your Skincare Products With You. ...
  4. Prepare All Your Questions. ...
  5. Compile All Essential Information About Your Condition.

What happens at a full body check at the dermatologist?

Your doctor will then do a head-to-toe skin exam, making note of any spots that need monitoring or closer examination. My screenings typically include an exam of my scalp, face, mouth, hands, feet, trunk and extremities, eyes and eyelids, ears, fingers, toes and toenails.

Do I need to shave before seeing a dermatologist?

If you are seeing your dermatologist for a skin check, plan on getting undressed. Skin cancers can occur ANYWHERE that you have skin so a thorough exam does require you to be undressed. And here's something we hear often, but isn't something you have to worry about: shaving your legs!

Should I be nervous going to the dermatologist?

They are looking for the details, not on your overall shape. If you are having anxiety over the experience, you can ask for accommodation. Dermatologists are healthcare professionals – they are there with the sole purpose of keeping you healthy.

What is considered the female groin area?

In basic human anatomy, the groin or also known as inguinal, is located between the abdomen and the thigh on either side of the pubic bone. This area is also known as the medial compartment of the thigh. This compartment consists of the adductor muscles of the hip or the groin muscles.

Do dermatologists look at swollen lymph nodes?

Your body will be checked all over for any other abnormal areas on your skin. The doctor might also feel the lymph nodes (small, bean-sized collections of immune cells) under the skin in your neck, underarms, or groin, as lymphomas can sometimes cause lymph nodes to become enlarged.

What to expect at dermatology appt?

A dermatologist will check your skin from head to toe, making note of any spots that need monitoring or further treatment. Many dermatologists will use a lighted magnifier called a dermatoscope to view moles and spots closely.

Can you wear undies for a full body skin exam?

You want it to be a complete and thorough examination, right? That means you should remove all of your undergarments, including your underwear, bra, undershirt and socks before lying on the table.

Do dermatologists look at lips?

In most cases, your dermatologist will notice warning signs of lip cancer when performing a regular visual examination of the skin. If a concerning spot is found, your dermatologist will often perform a biopsy by removing a small sample of skin from the affected area.

Do you fully undress at the dermatologist?

Expect a thorough exam: The dermatologist will examine your entire body, including hard-to-see places like your scalp, back, between fingers and toes, and under nails. You will be given a paper gown and asked to undress to the level that you feel comfortable.

How much is a skin check at a dermatologist?

The typical cost for a dermatologist visit in the U.S. is $125. Many healthcare plans consider dermatologists to be specialists, which means you may face a higher copay or coinsurance level than the one for your primary care provider. Check your policy documents for specifics.

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