Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which glands are responsible for normalizing body temperature?

1. Sebaceous glands

2. Eccrine glands

3. Apocrine glands

4. Thyroid glands

The correct answer is: Eccrine glands

Eccrine glands are primarily responsible for regulating body temperature through the process of sweat production. These glands are distributed across most of the body, with a high concentration on the palms, soles of the feet, and forehead. When the body temperature rises due to external heat or physical activity, the eccrine glands secrete a watery sweat that evaporates from the skin surface. This evaporation process helps cool the body down, effectively normalizing its temperature. In contrast, sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which is mainly involved in moisturizing the skin and hair but does not play a role in temperature regulation. Apocrine glands, often found in areas such as the armpits and groin, are associated with body odor and are not directly involved in thermoregulation. The thyroid glands, although they have a role in metabolism and can indirectly influence body temperature, are not glands that directly contribute to the body's cooling process. Overall, the role of eccrine glands in producing sweat that evaporates to cool the body is what makes them crucial for normalizing body temperature.