Frequently Asked Questions

Product Information and Comparisons

Which dermatoscope should I buy?

First, this comparison chart is a good starting point for those in the market for a new dermatoscope:

https://dermatoscopes.com/pages/comparison-guide

Then to really start the "narrowing down process," the main screening questions you should ask yourself are:

Will the dermatoscope be used for taking photographs (e.g., for patient's chart or other documentation)?

If so, would it be used exclusively for that purpose? Or would it also be used by you for routine screening of lesions (regardless of whether photographs are also taken)?

The reason these questions matter is because not all dermatoscopes are MagnetiConnect compatible. On the previously-mentioned "comparison chart," only those with a green "check mark" are compatible with the MagnetiConnect phone cases and clamp. While theoretically it is possible to take photos without that (by simply holding your camera up to the dermatoscope), the MagnetiConnect adapters make taking pictures much easier.

If the dermatoscope will in fact be used for performing dermoscopy for patient exams (as opposed to being dedicated to taking photographs), do you plan to carry it on you throughout the day? Or would you only retrieve it from your desk, cabinet, etc. here and there as needed?

Apart from MagnetiConnect compatibility, some dermatoscopes are lighter, while others are heavier and bulkier. Additionally, some are perhaps "easier" to use for photos. Smaller/lighter dermatoscopes tend to fit into this category. However, some of the smaller/lighter devices aren't necessarily ideal for also performing traditional "handheld" dermoscopy.

For example, the Dermlite handyscope is very compact and lightweight, making it great for using as a dedicated "photography dermatoscope." However, it's not particularly ergonomic for those who wish to also perform dermoscopy for screening (independent of the photography aspect).

What "style" of dermoscopy do you anticipate performing?

By this, we mean that a more "pragmatic" approach would be performing dermoscopy simply to determine whether a lesion warrants biopsy, but once that decision is made, the dermoscopic exam is over.

On the opposite end of the spectrum would be a very "academic" approach of carefully studying each lesion's colors, structures, etc. even after the decision is made whether to perform a biopsy.

The reason this matters is because some of the devices which are most comfortable and easy to use for screening may not necessarily be "ideal" for in-depth lesion analysis. The Lumio S would be an example. The lens is huge, making it easy to scan large areas all at once. The Dermlite GL would also fit into this category.

However, neither of the Lumio S nor the GL offer 10x magnification. So while they're very comfortable and easy to use for "screening," the lack of higher magnification make them less-than-ideal for those who really want to visualize the minute details/structures within more concerning lesions.

So if you lean toward the "academic" side of dermoscopy (i.e., wanting to really examine each lesion's microscopic details even after you've determined that a biopsy may be needed), then you may find yourself wanting a higher-magnification device beyond what the Lumio S or GL can offer.

How much of a role will price play?

There's now quite a range of pricing, from ~$400 per device all the way up to ~$1800. One question we pose to prospective buyers who admit that pricing is a concern would be:

"If you had to choose just one, which of the following would make more sense your clinic's needs?

a) a single, top-of-the-line dermatoscope, or...
b) two "good" dermatoscopes for the same price as the single top-of-the-line dermatoscope."

In the above hypothetical scenario, those who consider it advantageous to have multiple dermatoscopes may find that purchasing a few "mid-range" devices (like the DL200 line) may make more sense than spending almost as much on a single DL5.

So think about those questions and feel free to contact us with your answers if you'd like to receive additional input. Knowing your responses can help guide us to suggest the right fit for your needs.

What is the difference between the DermLite DL1 and DermLite Carbon?

The DL1 is designed for smartphone dermoscopy, featuring a 15 mm lens, high-powered LED lighting, and rechargeable batteries. It connects to smartphones via the MagnetiConnect Clamp. The Carbon uses a disposable battery and does not connect to smartphones. Both offer polarized lighting.

Which dermatoscope is the newest?

The DermLite DL5, introduced in late 2022, is the newest model, offering advanced features like a 32 mm lens, variable polarization, and UV lighting.

What are the differences between the DL200 Hybrid and DL200 HR?

Both have 25 mm lenses and 10x magnification. The DL200 Hybrid includes polarized and non-polarized lighting, while the DL200 HR is polarized-only.

Which dermatoscope is best for nail fold capillary analysis?

Just about any model will work for this purpose, however most would agree that 10x magnification is preferable to lower degrees of magnification. Most Dermlite models provide 10x, though some (such as the Lumio S and Dermlite GL) do not. 

Contact Information

Who should I contact if I have a question?

You can email us at contact@dermatoscopes.com or fill out the form on our Contact Us page.

How can I cancel or change my order?

To cancel or modify your order, email us at contact@dermatoscopes.com.

Shipping and Returns

How long will it take to get my package?

Most items ship from our headquarters within 1-2 business days. Orders then typically arrive 3-4 days after shipment. So taking weekends into consideration, “most” packages will arrive right around 1 week after the order is placed.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are traveling and/or have other time constraints (i.e., you “must” receive your package by a certain date), please contact us before placing your order to ensure that the item is available and to confirm likely arrival date.

What is the return policy?

Items can be returned within 30 days if they are in “resellable” condition. Contact us at contact@dermatoscopes.com before initiating a return. Learn more about our return policy here.

Do you ship internationally?

We only ship within the US. For international distributors, visit DermLite Dealers.

Is expedited shipping available?

Please contact us at contact@dermatoscopes.com for specific shipping requests.

Warranty and Repairs

Do you provide any warranty?

Yes, DermLite dermatoscopes purchased after March 2023 carry a 5-year warranty. Other items, including batteries and accessories, have varying warranty terms. Visit our Warranty Policy for detailed coverage information.

How do I send in my dermatoscope for repair?

Start by completing DermLite's Service Request Form. Email photos or videos of the issue to contact@dermatoscopes.com for troubleshooting.

Can I purchase replacement parts?

Yes, replacement parts such as batteries and faceplates are available. Contact us with your device model details.

Functionality and Usage

Can Dermlite devices take photos?

Any of the Dermlite dermatoscopes which are "MagnetiConnect-compatible" can be used to take pictures. However, it's important to note that in this context, the word "connect" is used to describe a physical/magnetic connection of the dermatoscope to a smartphone or camera.

However, there are no Dermlite dermatoscopes which directly take pictures and/or store images within the dermatoscope itself. With respect to photography, the dermatoscope serves as an accessory to the smartphone or camera, but the actual picture can only be taken by the smartphone's (or tablet's) camera. In turn, it's that device which "electronically connects" to the computer. 

Therefore, when someone inquires about "connecting their phone" to their dermatoscope, the first requirement is to determine if their dermatoscope is MagnetiConnect compatible. The DL100, Dermlite Carbon, and Lumio S are not MagnetiConnect compatible, therefore no adapters or cases are available to help them connect their DL100, Carbon, or Lumio S to their iPhone (or other device).

If a dermatoscope is MagnetiConnect compatible, then it can be connected to a smartphone via one of the available iPhone cases. Alternatively, the MagnetiConnect Clamp is "universal" to the extent that it can be used on a variety of iPhone or tablet models, without the need to determine the exact model of device. 

How do I attach a Dermlite to a smartphone?

Use a MagnetiConnect adapter such as a device-specific case or MagnetiConnect Clamp. Visit our Case Finder to see which options are available for your phone or tablet.

What are the uses of polarized and non-polarized lighting?

Polarized lighting enhances visualization of deeper structures, while non-polarized lighting highlights surface features.

Discounts and Purchasing

Do you offer resident or student discounts?

Some student/resident discounts are available through Dermlite. For details, contact Dermlite's customer service directly at 'a.mercado@dermlite.com' or call 949-481-6384.

Do you offer gift cards?

Yes, virtual gift cards are available. Purchase a gift card here.

Miscellaneous

Does Dermlite Carbon come with oil?

No. Contact dermoscopy, which requires oil and a glass faceplate, is not applicable to the Carbon model.

Which dermatoscope is the lightest?

The DL1, weighing only 1.9 ounces (54 grams), is the smallest and lightest model.

How do I charge the DL5?

The DL5 can be charged directly via USB-C or with its charging cradle.