New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is a scale in dermatological terms?

1. Thickened skin layer

2. Shedding of skin on uppermost layer of skin

3. A type of mole

4. A deep skin infection

The correct answer is: Shedding of skin on uppermost layer of skin

In dermatological terms, a scale refers to the shedding of the uppermost layer of skin. This process is a natural part of the skin's lifecycle, wherein dead skin cells are continuously being shed and replaced by new ones. Scales can often become noticeable in certain skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, where the normal shedding process is disrupted, leading to the accumulation of dead skin cells. This accumulated material can form visible flakes or layers, which are identified as scales. Understanding this concept is crucial in esthetics as it relates to skin health, treatment options, and appropriate care for clients experiencing various skin conditions. Other options represent different dermatological concepts: thickened skin layers may relate to conditions like lichenification, a type of mole pertains to melanocytic lesions, and a deep skin infection refers to conditions like cellulitis. However, these do not accurately describe what a scale specifically denotes in dermatology.