How does a thick corneum layer appear under a Wood's lamp?

The thick corneum layer, which is the outermost layer of the skin, appears under a Wood's lamp as having a white fluorescence. The Wood's lamp emits ultraviolet light that can reveal various properties of the skin. A healthy, thick stratum corneum reflects this light and produces a bright, white appearance. This phenomenon allows cosmetologists to assess skin conditions more accurately, as different skin layers and conditions can present uniquely when exposed to UV light.

This characteristic fluorescence indicates that the skin barrier is intact and functioning properly, which is essential for overall skin health. The clarity of this fluorescence can help professionals determine the status of the skin and make appropriate recommendations for care or treatment. Other colors produced under the Wood's lamp may indicate different skin issues, such as bacterial or fungal infections, but the white fluorescence directly correlates with a thick corneum layer.