Alternate Light Source Findings of Common Topical Cosmetics and Three Removal Methods

Abstract

Introduction Alternate light sources (ALSs) are a tool used by forensic nurses to aid in the physical examination of patients. Prior research has shown some topical makeup products absorb alternate light similar to the absorption noted in bruises. Therefore, the purposes of this study were (a) to further examine the ALS findings of multiple brands and types of makeup products and (b) to compare the efficacy of three methods of makeup removal. Methods Fourteen makeup products were applied to the forearms of 100 healthy adult volunteers with varying skin tones and then assessed under white light, six alternate light wavelengths, and three color filters, producing 19 total wavelength-and-filter combinations. The results were recorded before and after removal procedures by forensic nurse examiners who were blinded to the removal method. A three-arm randomized controlled trial of makeup removal methods (soap and water, isopropyl alcohol swab, makeup removal wipe) was conducted with the participants. Results All 14 makeup products produced absorption in at least 10% of the observations. Fluorescence was observed in more than 10% of the observations for only two products. After product removal, four products continued to produce statistically significant absorption findings when viewed under an ALS. One product produced significant fluorescence after removal procedures. There were no statistically significant differences between the removal methods noted in any of these analyses. Conclusion Our findings support the importance of using alternate light as one component of a comprehensive forensic examination, including history taking and physical examination.

Visibility of inflicted bruises by alternate light: Results of a randomized controlled trial

“…Clinicians should follow these guidelines to ensure they are utilizing ALS appropriately to avoid false positive findings. For example, ALS should be used in conjunction with patients' report of known history of trauma [11, 14]; patients should be asked about use of topical products [30]; and skin should be washed after evidence is collected (if indicated) and before ALS examination [31].…”

“…For example, ALS should be used in conjunction with patients' report of known history of trauma [11,14]; patients should be asked about use of topical products [30]; and skin should be washed after evidence is collected (if indicated) and before ALS examination [31]. The BVS and the AVS instruments differ in one key characteristic-BVS reference images are in color while AVS reference images are black and white.…”

Improving the Forensic Documentation of Injuries Through Alternate Light: A Researcher–Practitioner Partnership

“…Evidence-based procedures for implementing ALS in forensic nursing practice will include conditions of use, application during skin assessments, patient and user safety considerations, documenting use and findings, photodocumentation, and maintenance and storage of the ALS equipment. Necessary clinical steps, considering the context of forensic nursing practice, such as cleansing the skin before ALS application but after sample collection (when applicable), will be included based on the available research evidence ( Anderson et al, 2020 ; Pollitt et al, 2016 ). The internal facilitators at both study sites will receive specific training in preparation for their role as “champions.” Champions serve as a readily available resource to staff and encourage the staff’s engagement in adopting and implementing practice changes when using the ALS tools.…”