Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What kind of bones are categorized as cheekbones?

1. Malar bones

2. Nasal bones

3. Pectoral bones

4. Temporal bones

The correct answer is: Malar bones

Malar bones, also known as the zygomatic bones, specifically refer to the bones that structure the prominence of the cheeks in the human skull. They play a crucial role in facial aesthetics and contribute to the overall shape and alignment of the face. The zygomatic bones articulate with several other bones in the skull, including the maxilla (upper jaw), the temporal bones, and the frontal bones, which underscores their importance in the formation of facial features. Understanding the facial structure and the function of the malar bones is particularly relevant in esthetics, as they influence contouring techniques and the application of makeup, as well as other beauty treatments that focus on enhancing facial symmetry and structure. Nasal bones are located at the bridge of the nose and are not involved in the cheek region, while pectoral bones, which comprise the shoulder girdle, and temporal bones, associated with the side of the skull, do not play a role in forming the cheekbones. This specificity makes malar bones a key focus in both anatomical studies and practical applications within esthetics.