A full-body skin exam is a comprehensive visual inspection of the skin, hair, and nails performed by a dermatologist. The primary purpose is the early detection of suspicious growths, lesions, and pigmented spots that may indicate developing skin cancer. Dermatologists look for the earliest signs of melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, the most common forms of skin malignancy. Identifying these conditions early significantly improves the likelihood of successful treatment.
The Rule Regarding Undergarments
Patients are generally allowed to keep their undergarments on (bra and briefs or boxers) during a full-body skin examination. You will be provided with a disposable medical gown and asked to undress to your comfort level, understanding that clothing obscures the skin surface. Keeping undergarments on is acceptable, as the examination focuses primarily on exposed skin susceptible to sun damage.
For the examination to be thorough, the clinician will inspect the skin right up to the edges of the undergarments. This may involve the provider lifting or moving the fabric slightly to check the skin immediately underneath the bra line or waistband. Skin cancers, especially melanoma, can develop in areas not typically exposed to the sun, so a complete inspection of the periphery is necessary. Skin in the genital or breast tissue area is not examined unless the patient has specifically reported a concern in that location.
How to Prepare for the Skin Exam
Taking a few steps before the appointment ensures the dermatologist can conduct the most effective assessment. You should remove all makeup, as cosmetics can camouflage subtle lesions on the face. Removing all jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings, is necessary because these accessories can hide the skin underneath them from visual inspection.
You should also remove any nail polish from your fingers and toes before your visit. Skin cancer, such as melanoma, can develop underneath the nail beds, and polish will obstruct the dermatologist’s view. Untying or removing hair accessories that might obscure the scalp is also helpful, as the scalp is a common location for skin cancer.
Maintaining Patient Comfort and Privacy
Clinical settings employ several techniques to ensure patient comfort and maintain privacy throughout the examination. After removing street clothes, you will be given a disposable gown to wear, allowing you to remain covered until the examination begins. The dermatologist or a medical assistant will instruct you on how to wear the gown, typically with the opening in the back or front.
A common practice is “draping,” which involves using towels or sheets to cover areas of the body not actively being examined. The clinician will only expose one section of skin at a time, moving the gown or drape sequentially from the head down to the feet. Many clinics also have a policy of having a chaperone, usually a medical assistant, present during the examination to provide professional oversight and comfort.