Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What process is used to soften and emulsify oil and blackheads in hair follicles?

1. Desincrustation

2. Exfoliation

3. Microdermabrasion

4. Hydration

The correct answer is: Desincrustation

Desincrustation is a process specifically designed to soften and emulsify oil, dirt, and blackheads within hair follicles, making it easier to extract these impurities. This treatment typically involves the use of a galvanic current combined with a specific alkaline solution, which helps to break down the oils and debris present in the skin. The electrical current facilitates the penetration of the solution, enhancing its effectiveness. Understanding the role of desincrustation is essential for estheticians, as it prepares the skin for subsequent treatments, such as extractions or deeper cleansing facials. This step is crucial in ensuring that the pores are clean and minimizes the risk of irritation during extractions. The other processes listed serve different purposes; for example, exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to improve texture and promote cell turnover. Microdermabrasion focuses on mechanically exfoliating the skin using fine crystals to remove the outer layer, while hydration pertains to adding moisture to the skin but does not specifically target oils or blackheads within hair follicles. Understanding these distinctions is important for effectively addressing various skin concerns in esthetic treatments.