Makeup Before a Dermatology Visit: Plan for a Bare-Skin Examination
SkinArticleConfirm cosmetic preparation so the dermatologist can examine your skin and nails without covering products.
In this article
Plan what the dermatologist needs to see
AAD recommends attending without makeup or nail polish because the dermatologist needs to see bare skin and nails.1
If you need makeup on the way there
The AAD advises bringing what you need to remove makeup at the dermatology office if you need to wear it to the appointment. Pack those supplies with your appointment information.1
Clarify anything that is difficult
You could ask: “I have makeup or nail polish to remove before the examination. What preparation does your clinic want?”1
If preparation is a concern, contact the clinic rather than delaying the visit. Ask for clarification before changing prescribed topical treatment; cosmetic preparation is not a blanket instruction to stop medicines.1
Skin, Head to Toe includes a visit script. Use it to keep the questions you want answered together. Explore the skin playbook.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- American Academy of Dermatology, 2022How to select a dermatologist (opens in a new tab)abcd
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