Cosmetology Skin Care and Facials 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the outermost layer of the epidermis called?
- Stratum germinativum
- Stratum granulosum
- Stratum corneum (Correct answer)
- Stratum spinosum
Correct answer: Stratum corneum
The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, composed of dead, flattened keratinocytes that form a protective barrier for the skin.
Question 2: Which skin type is characterized by shiny appearance, enlarged pores, and frequent breakouts?
- Dry skin
- Sensitive skin
- Normal skin
- Oily skin (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Oily skin
Oily skin produces excess sebum, resulting in a shiny appearance, enlarged pores, and a tendency toward acne and blackheads.
Question 3: The process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin is called:
- Hydration
- Exfoliation (Correct answer)
- Emulsification
- Desquamation
Correct answer: Exfoliation
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface, either mechanically (scrubs) or chemically (AHA/BHA), to reveal fresher skin beneath.
Question 4: A comedone is the technical term for:
- A skin tag
- A blackhead or whitehead (Correct answer)
- A mole
- A pustule
Correct answer: A blackhead or whitehead
A comedone is a clogged hair follicle — open comedones are blackheads (oxidized sebum exposed to air) and closed comedones are whiteheads (sebum trapped under skin).
Question 5: During a facial, steam is used primarily to:
- Close the pores
- Sanitize the skin
- Soften the skin and open pores for extractions (Correct answer)
- Apply product deeper
Correct answer: Soften the skin and open pores for extractions
Steam softens the skin, loosens debris, and opens the follicle opening, making extractions easier and more effective during a facial treatment.
Question 6: What ingredient in a sunscreen physically blocks UV rays by sitting on top of the skin?
- Avobenzone
- Oxybenzone
- Zinc oxide (Correct answer)
- Octinoxate
Correct answer: Zinc oxide
Zinc oxide is a physical (mineral) sunscreen ingredient that reflects and scatters UV radiation on the skin's surface rather than absorbing it chemically.
Cosmetology Skin Care and Facials 1
What is the outermost layer of the epidermis called?