Skin Anatomy & Physiology Flashcards

Which skin appendage is the primary target when performing laser hair removal?

Answer: Hair follicle bulge and bulb

Laser hair removal targets the hair follicle bulge (stem cells) and bulb (matrix cells) where melanin absorbs laser energy to destroy the follicle.

The Fitzpatrick skin type scale classifies skin primarily based on which characteristic?

Answer: Reaction to UV exposure and tanning ability

The Fitzpatrick scale (Types I–VI) classifies skin by its response to UV exposure, specifically burning and tanning tendency.

What is the name of the water-insoluble protein that makes up the bulk of the epidermis?

Answer: Keratin

Keratin is the fibrous structural protein produced by keratinocytes that provides the epidermis with its protective barrier properties.

Which layer of the dermis contains the densely packed collagen bundles that give skin its tensile strength?

Answer: Reticular dermis

The reticular dermis is the deeper, thicker layer containing coarse, interwoven collagen bundles (primarily Type I) that provide tensile strength.

Arrector pili muscles are responsible for which physiological response?

Answer: Causing hair to stand erect (goosebumps)

Arrector pili are smooth muscles attached to hair follicles; their contraction in response to cold or fear produces piloerection (goosebumps).

In the context of selective photothermolysis, the term 'chromophore' refers to:

Answer: The target molecule that absorbs laser energy

A chromophore is the target molecule (e.g., melanin, oxyhemoglobin, water) that selectively absorbs specific laser wavelengths, converting light to heat.

Which type of collagen predominates in the papillary dermis and is associated with fine, immature fibers?

Answer: Type III collagen

Type III collagen (reticulin fibers) predominates in the papillary dermis and is also found in wound healing and fetal skin.