Skin Analysis
What you must understand
Skin analysis combines observation, palpation, questioning, and measurement. Candidates should describe Fitzpatrick phototype, Glogau photoaging scale, and Baumann-style attributes (oiliness, sensitivity, pigmentation tendency, wrinkles). Learn to identify primary lesions (macule, papule, pustule, nodule, vesicle, wheal) and secondary changes (scale, crust, excoriation, lichenification). Understand lesion distribution and symmetry as clues to whether a presentation is routine or needs referral. Instrumentation includes sebumeters, corneometers, TEWL meters, and imaging devices; know what each measures and its limits.
Traps in questions
A frequent error is diagnosing rather than describing. Skin therapists describe and refer; they do not name medical conditions such as rosacea or melasma definitively. Another trap is treating a single observation as conclusive - a shiny nose does not confirm oily skin type across the face. Questions may present a lesion with irregular borders, varied colour, or recent change; the correct answer is urgent referral, not a cosmetic peel. Also beware of assuming phototype from ethnicity alone; ask about burning and tanning history.
Rule of thumb
Use the "describe, document, decide" sequence: describe what you see in neutral terms, document it with location and size, then decide whether it is within scope or a referral.
Worked example
A client has a 7 mm asymmetric brown macule with irregular borders on the shoulder. The description is documented, no treatment is offered, and referral to a medical practitioner is arranged. A symmetrical, uniform freckle would instead be documented and monitored.