Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What causes the skin to appear yellow, gray, and sallow?

1. Excess sun exposure

2. Poor diet

3. Smoking

4. Alcohol consumption

The correct answer is: Smoking

The skin can appear yellow, gray, and sallow due to various factors, but smoking is particularly known for its detrimental effects on skin health and appearance. Smoking introduces numerous toxins into the body, which can lead to reduced blood circulation, oxygen delivery, and nutrient supply to the skin. This results in a dull complexion, with an overall lack of vibrancy. Additionally, smoking can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which are critical for maintaining skin elasticity and a healthy color. While other factors like excess sun exposure, poor diet, and alcohol consumption can also negatively impact skin color and health, smoking has unique associations with changes in skin tone, particularly because of its direct effects on circulation and skin structure. Understanding the specific impacts of smoking on skin appearance is crucial for estheticians, as it helps in providing targeted advice and care to clients.