Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What characterizes vitiligo?

1. Increased pigmentation

2. Flaky skin

3. Itching and inflammation

4. White patches on the skin

The correct answer is: White patches on the skin

Vitiligo is characterized by the presence of white patches on the skin, which occur due to a loss of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin. This condition leads to a noticeable contrast between the affected areas and the surrounding skin, creating distinct depigmented spots. The patches can vary in size and can spread over time. Understanding vitiligo is important for estheticians, as it can influence how to approach skincare treatments and client consultations, particularly in terms of cosmetic considerations and skin health.