Esthetician Practice Exam Esthetician Knowledge 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which layer of the epidermis contains melanocytes that produce melanin?
- Stratum granulosum
- Stratum spinosum
- Stratum basale (Correct answer)
- Stratum lucidum
Correct answer: Stratum basale
The stratum basale (basal layer) is the deepest layer of the epidermis and contains melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color and provides UV protection.
Question 2: What is the correct angle at which to hold a comedone extractor when extracting a blackhead?
- 90 degrees perpendicular to the skin
- 30–45 degrees to the skin surface (Correct answer)
- 60 degrees to the skin surface
- Flat at 10 degrees to the skin surface
Correct answer: 30–45 degrees to the skin surface
A comedone extractor should be held at a 30–45 degree angle to allow controlled, even pressure around the follicle opening without damaging surrounding tissue or forcing the plug deeper.
Question 3: Which acid is commonly used in chemical peels for its ability to penetrate deeply due to its small molecular size?
- Lactic acid
- Mandelic acid
- Glycolic acid (Correct answer)
- Salicylic acid
Correct answer: Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane, has the smallest molecular size among alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), allowing it to penetrate the skin most deeply and effectively exfoliate and stimulate collagen production.
Question 4: When performing a high-frequency treatment, which mode is used directly on the skin to stimulate circulation and is known as the 'indirect' method?
- Sparking method
- Effleurage method
- Viennese massage method (Correct answer)
- Fulguration method
Correct answer: Viennese massage method
The Viennese massage method (indirect method) involves the client holding the high-frequency electrode while the esthetician massages the face, allowing current to flow through the esthetician's hands to stimulate circulation and product absorption.
Question 5: Which skin type is characterized by shiny appearance, enlarged pores, and excess sebum production across the entire face?
- Combination skin
- Oily skin (Correct answer)
- Dehydrated skin
- Sensitive skin
Correct answer: Oily skin
Oily skin is defined by overactive sebaceous glands producing excess sebum uniformly across the face, resulting in a consistently shiny appearance, enlarged pores, and a tendency toward acne and comedones.
Question 6: What is the purpose of the desincrustation process in a facial treatment?
- To tighten and firm the skin using astringent properties
- To soften and emulsify sebum and comedones for easier extraction (Correct answer)
- To introduce water-soluble products deeper into the skin
- To stimulate lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness
Correct answer: To soften and emulsify sebum and comedones for easier extraction
Desincrustation uses galvanic current with an alkaline solution to saponify (emulsify) sebum and soften the contents of clogged follicles, making comedone extraction easier and less traumatic to the skin.
Esthetician Practice Exam Esthetician Knowledge 1
Which layer of the epidermis contains melanocytes that produce melanin?