What is dermoscopy done with?

During the examination, the clinician places the dermatoscope on or just above a skin mark. Light and magnification make details such as colour distribution, vessels, scaling and border patterns easier to assess than with unaided vision. A contact medium may be used with some devices to improve the view.

The examination is non-invasive and usually takes only a short time for each mark. Images may be recorded when comparison at a later review would help. Dermoscopy supports clinical judgement; it does not replace the history, physical examination or tissue testing when that is indicated.

Make a note of new or changing marks and show the clinician any area that bleeds, crusts, itches or does not heal. Share previous images and relevant medical history. Ask whether you need monitoring, removal or another test, and how to recognise a meaningful change between visits.

Book a timely assessment for a lesion that is changing, asymmetrical, unusually dark, repeatedly bleeding or different from the rest of your marks. Seek urgent help for severe pain, rapidly spreading redness, fever or bleeding that will not stop with gentle pressure.

Ask what the dermatoscope revealed, whether an image will be stored for comparison, what follow-up interval is suitable, and which symptoms should prompt an earlier review.