Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What condition is characterized by silvery, flaky, dry skin?

1. Tinea Versicolor

2. Psoriasis

3. Contact Dermatitis

4. Dermatitis

The correct answer is: Psoriasis

The condition characterized by silvery, flaky, dry skin is psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that leads to the rapid buildup of skin cells, which creates thick, silvery scales and red patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful. The flaky appearance is a defining characteristic of the condition, which often affects the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back, but can appear anywhere on the body. Understanding psoriasis is crucial for estheticians, as it influences how they approach treatments and products for clients who may have this condition. While tinea versicolor involves discoloration and patches of skin rather than flakiness, and contact dermatitis and dermatitis involve inflammation and irritation of the skin, these conditions do not typically present with the distinct silvery, flaky texture associated with psoriasis. Thus, recognizing the characteristics of each skin condition helps professionals provide appropriate care and advice.