Cosmetology and Beauty Cosmetology and Beauty Skin Care & Esthetics 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) is derived from sugar cane and is commonly used in chemical peels?
- Lactic acid
- Mandelic acid
- Glycolic acid (Correct answer)
- Tartaric acid
Correct answer: Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane, has the smallest molecular size among AHAs, allowing deep penetration and effective exfoliation.
Question 2: What is the difference between a comedone and a pustule?
- A comedone contains pus while a pustule is a clogged pore
- A comedone is a clogged follicle (open or closed) while a pustule is an infected, pus-filled lesion (Correct answer)
- A comedone is always inflamed while a pustule is not
- A comedone occurs only on oily skin while pustules occur on all skin types
Correct answer: A comedone is a clogged follicle (open or closed) while a pustule is an infected, pus-filled lesion
A comedone is a follicle blocked with sebum and dead cells (blackhead or whitehead), whereas a pustule is an inflamed, pus-filled papule caused by bacterial activity.
Question 3: Which contraindication would prevent an esthetician from performing a facial treatment?
- Dry skin type
- Broken or irritated skin, active infection, or contagious skin condition (Correct answer)
- Client over age 60
- Naturally dark skin tone
Correct answer: Broken or irritated skin, active infection, or contagious skin condition
Open wounds, active infections (such as impetigo), or contagious conditions are absolute contraindications that require rescheduling the service.
Question 4: What is the purpose of a galvanic current in an esthetic facial treatment?
- Stimulate muscle contractions
- Produce heat to open pores
- Drive water-soluble active ingredients deeper into the skin (iontophoresis) or perform desincrustation (Correct answer)
- Exfoliate the stratum corneum mechanically
Correct answer: Drive water-soluble active ingredients deeper into the skin (iontophoresis) or perform desincrustation
Galvanic current uses direct electrical current for iontophoresis (product penetration) and desincrustation (emulsifying sebum in clogged pores).
Question 5: Which skin type is characterized by shiny appearance, enlarged pores, and a tendency toward blackheads and breakouts?
- Dry skin
- Normal skin
- Oily skin (Correct answer)
- Combination skin
Correct answer: Oily skin
Oily skin results from overactive sebaceous glands, producing excess sebum that creates shine, enlarged pores, and a comedone-prone environment.
Question 6: What is transepidermal water loss (TEWL)?
- Water absorbed by the skin from topical products
- Passive diffusion of water from the body through the skin to the environment (Correct answer)
- Sweat secreted by eccrine glands during exercise
- Water drawn into cells through osmosis
Correct answer: Passive diffusion of water from the body through the skin to the environment
TEWL refers to the passive evaporation of water from the body through the skin barrier into the surrounding environment without sweating.
Cosmetology and Beauty Cosmetology and Beauty Skin Care & Esthetics 2
Which alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) is derived from sugar cane and is commonly used in chemical peels?