Private Blood Testing for Skin, Hair & Health in London

What are Blood Tests in Dermatology?

Blood tests play a crucial role in diagnosing skin, hair, and nail conditions. Many dermatological diseases are linked with systemic imbalances — from autoimmune antibodies to vitamin deficiencies and hormonal changes. At Skinhorizon Clinic, all blood tests are ordered and interpreted by a consultant dermatologist, ensuring they are clinically appropriate and relevant.

This means you receive not just raw numbers, but a clear, personalised explanation of what your results mean for your skin or hair health — and how they shape your treatment plan.

When is it recommended?

Blood tests are recommended when dermatological conditions may be linked with underlying systemic issues. Common indications include:

• Hair loss: Assess iron, ferritin, vitamin D, thyroid hormones, autoimmune markers.
• Chronic rashes: Evaluate inflammatory markers, autoimmune screens, coeliac testing.
• Acne or hormonal skin conditions: Check androgens, testosterone, LH/FSH, DHEA-S.
• Skin pigmentation disorders: Autoimmune and endocrine testing.
• Infections: Screen for bacterial, viral, or systemic triggers.
• General skin health: Nutritional status including B12, folate, zinc.

Types of Blood Tests Offered

• Full blood count (FBC): Screens for anaemia, infection, bone marrow status.
• Iron studies: Ferritin, iron, transferrin saturation for hair loss and fatigue.
• Vitamin panels: Vitamin D, B12, folate, zinc for skin and hair health.
• Thyroid function tests (TFTs): TSH, T4, T3 for alopecia, dry skin, pigmentation changes.
• Hormonal profiles: Testosterone, DHEA-S, LH, FSH, prolactin for acne, PCOS, hirsutism.
• Autoimmune panels: ANA, ENA, dsDNA, thyroid antibodies, coeliac markers.
• Inflammatory markers: ESR, CRP to assess systemic inflammation.
• Liver and kidney function tests: Important before systemic dermatology medications (methotrexate, isotretinoin).
• Infectious disease screens: Hepatitis, HIV, syphilis where clinically relevant.

How it works

1. Consultation: History, symptoms, and examination to determine appropriate tests.
2. Sample collection: Blood taken from a vein in your arm under sterile conditions.
3. Laboratory analysis: Tests processed at accredited labs.
4. Results: Returned within 24–72 hours for most tests; some specialist assays take longer.
5. Interpretation: Consultant explains results in context and recommends next steps.

What can it help diagnose?

• Anaemia contributing to hair loss and fatigue
• Vitamin D deficiency worsening psoriasis or eczema
• Thyroid disorders linked to hair thinning, dryness, and pigmentation
• Hormonal imbalance causing acne, PCOS-related hirsutism
• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, dermatomyositis, coeliac disease
• Systemic inflammation in vasculitis or connective tissue disorders
• Infectious causes of rash or systemic illness

Preparation

• Some tests may require fasting — your consultant will advise in advance.
• Bring a list of medications and supplements, as some may affect results.
• Stay well hydrated before the test to make blood collection easier.
• If monitoring medication, ensure blood is taken at the correct interval (e.g., trough levels).

Safety & limitations

Blood tests are safe and routine. Risks include mild discomfort, bruising, or lightheadedness at the needle site. Limitations: not all conditions are detectable on bloods, and results must always be interpreted alongside clinical assessment. In dermatology, bloods provide context but rarely replace skin examination or biopsy.

Results & follow-up

Most results are available within 1–3 days, though specialist immunology or endocrine assays may take longer. Results are reviewed in detail with you by your consultant, who will provide a written summary and a tailored management plan. Where abnormalities are identified, we arrange further tests or treatment and liaise with your GP if ongoing monitoring is required.

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Disclaimer: Diagnostic tests at Skinhorizon are provided only where clinically appropriate and must be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. Results alone do not replace a medical diagnosis, and further consultation may be required.