Esthetics Core Written Practice Test

What is a primary deficiency in dry skin?

1. Fat

2. Protein

3. Water

4. Minerals

The correct answer is: Water

Dry skin is primarily characterized by a deficiency in water. When the skin lacks sufficient moisture, it can lead to a feeling of tightness, flakiness, and an overall rough texture. The skin's outermost layer, stratum corneum, is dependent on adequate hydration to function properly as a barrier and to maintain its elasticity and softness. Without enough water content, the skin struggles to retain moisture, leading to an increased likelihood of irritation and sensitivity. While fats, proteins, and minerals play essential roles in skin health and overall nutrition, they do not directly address the moisture content that is the core issue for individuals experiencing dry skin. Fats are important for creating a barrier to prevent water loss, and proteins contribute to the structure and repair of the skin, but neither is a primary deficiency in this specific case of dry skin. Minerals are critical for various bodily functions and can support skin health, but they do not specifically resolve the lack of moisture that defines dry skin conditions. Thus, the central problem in dry skin is fundamentally linked to water deficiency.