CME Hair & Skin Science Flashcards

Which skin condition characterized by darkened, velvety patches in body folds is associated with insulin resistance and may be seen in clients seeking electrolysis?

Answer: Acanthosis nigricans

Acanthosis nigricans presents as hyperpigmented velvety skin in body folds and is often a marker of insulin resistance or endocrine disorders.

In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), excess hair growth is primarily driven by elevated levels of:

Answer: Androgens

PCOS causes elevated androgen levels that stimulate hirsutism, making it one of the most common reasons clients seek permanent hair removal.

A telogen effluvium episode may affect electrolysis outcomes because:

Answer: Increased shedding means fewer active follicles to treat

Telogen effluvium causes a large proportion of hairs to enter the resting phase simultaneously, reducing the number of anagen hairs available for effective treatment.

The stratum corneum serves as the primary:

Answer: Barrier against water loss and pathogens

The stratum corneum is the outermost epidermal layer composed of dead keratinocytes that form a protective barrier limiting transepidermal water loss.

Which type of hair follicle structure does the electrologist primarily target during treatment?

Answer: Dermal papilla

The dermal papilla at the base of the follicle contains the stem cells responsible for hair growth, and destroying it achieves permanent hair removal.

Pseudofolliculitis barbae, commonly seen in clients with tightly coiled hair, is caused by:

Answer: Ingrown hairs re-entering the skin and causing inflammation

Pseudofolliculitis barbae occurs when tightly coiled hairs curve back and penetrate the skin after shaving, triggering a foreign-body inflammatory response.