Dr Katherine Scafide began researching Alternate Light Sources (ALS) with specific wavelengths to find a solution to the problem. "We were able to discover which wavelengths provide the best ability to detect bruises," Scafide said. "And we discovered blue, and the violet lights work the best." Scafide led a study which found that ALS were five times better at detecting bruises on diverse skin tones than white lights. She said the technology is working in Baltimore, where Mercy Medical Center has started using it. It has been introduced into court evidence in some domestic violence and assault cases. Scafide is hoping to expand the use of the technology regionally and nationally.

A forensic nurse and associate professor at George Mason University has discovered and developed a way to detect bruising more easily on dark skin tones in the hopes of helping more victims of domestic violence and abuse. According to Dr Katherine Scafide, unfortunately, it is difficult to document an injury, especially for those who have experienced violence, as there isn't enough evidence to support the assailant's possible prosecution.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey states that nearly 1 in 2 women report experiencing physical violence, sexual violence or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lives. Slightly more black women, nearly 54%, reported experiencing violence or stalking. It has become urgent to find a solution that protects people of colour, mainly because injuries like bruises are harder to see with the naked eye.