Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What does viscosity measure?

1. The color of a fluid

2. The resistance of a fluid to deformation

3. The temperature of a fluid

4. The density of a fluid

The correct answer is: The resistance of a fluid to deformation

Viscosity measures the resistance of a fluid to deformation or flow. It describes how thick or sticky a liquid is and indicates how readily it can flow under an applied force. For example, honey has a high viscosity compared to water, meaning it flows more slowly and resists movement more than water does. In terms of practical application, understanding viscosity is essential in various esthetic treatments, such as when working with different types of products (creams, lotions, oils), as their viscosity can affect application methods, absorption, and overall efficacy on the skin. Choosing products with the appropriate viscosity can enhance the effectiveness of treatments and improve client outcomes.