Colorado Esthetician Written Practice Exam

What is a characteristic of oily skin?

1. Excess sebum production

2. Lacks water

3. Lacks sebum production

4. Normal oil and water balance

The correct answer is: Excess sebum production

Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum production. Sebum is the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. When the skin produces an excessive amount of sebum, it can lead to a shiny or greasy appearance, enlarged pores, and an increased likelihood of developing acne or blackheads. This is why option A, "Excess sebum production," is the correct characteristic of oily skin. Options B, C, and D are not characteristic of oily skin. Oily skin typically does not lack water, as it is an excess of oil that is the primary concern. Similarly, oily skin is not characterized by a lack of sebum production; in fact, the opposite is true. Finally, oily skin does not have a normal oil and water balance - the balance is tilted towards excessive oil production.