Milady Cosmetology Practice Exam

A skin condition characterized by a combination of dryness and scaling typically indicates what type of issue?

1. Allergy

2. Infection

3. Moisture deficiency

4. Injury

The correct answer is: Moisture deficiency

A skin condition that presents with both dryness and scaling typically points to moisture deficiency. This condition arises when the skin is unable to retain adequate hydration, leading to an impaired barrier function. As the skin loses moisture, it can begin to look flaky or rough, and these characteristics are signs that there is an insufficient level of moisture in the skin's upper layers. In contrast, an allergy would more likely present with redness, itching, or irritation rather than solely dryness and scaling. An infection often shows additional signs such as warmth, swelling, or pus, which would not be evident in a moisture deficiency case. Lastly, an injury to the skin may exhibit symptoms such as bruising or open wounds, which diverges from the symptoms of dryness and scaling. Thus, moisture deficiency stands out as the most accurate identifier of the combination of symptoms described.