Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the primary effect of a cathode in electrotherapy?

1. Heats tissues

2. Softens tissues

3. Repels unwanted cells

4. Tightens the skin

The correct answer is: Softens tissues

In electrotherapy, the primary effect of a cathode is to soften tissues. The cathode is the negatively charged electrode used during various electrotherapy treatments. When a cathode is applied to the skin, it produces a chemical reaction that can help soften keratinized or hardened layers of skin. This is particularly useful in treatments that aim to exfoliate or prepare the skin for further procedures. The action at the cathode often leads to increased hydration of the skin and helps in the breakdown of certain substances in the dermis, promoting a more supple texture. This effect can be advantageous in various esthetic procedures, such as when preparing the skin for additional treatments or facilitating the absorption of products following a session. Other options do not accurately encapsulate the primary effect associated with a cathode in electrotherapy. While heating tissues can occur with certain applications, the primary role of the cathode emphasizes tissue softening. The repelling of unwanted cells is not a documented primary function of the cathode, and tightening the skin is generally associated with other modalities or types of currents, rather than a direct effect of the cathode itself.