Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

What has an intrinsic effect on the skin?

1. Environmental pollutants

2. Cosmetic products

3. Vitamin deficiency

4. Sun exposure

The correct answer is: Vitamin deficiency

An intrinsic effect on the skin refers to changes that occur from within the body rather than as a result of external factors. Vitamin deficiency is a prime example of this because it directly affects skin health and appearance by influencing cellular function and metabolism. For instance, a deficiency in vitamins A, C, or E can lead to issues such as poor wound healing, dryness, or accelerated aging, all of which are intrinsic changes resulting from the body's nutritional state. In contrast, environmental pollutants, cosmetic products, and sun exposure are all external factors that primarily cause extrinsic effects on the skin. These can influence skin conditions and contribute to premature aging or damage, but they do not stem from internal bodily processes like vitamin deficiencies do. Understanding this distinction is crucial for estheticians when assessing skin health and recommending treatments that might address underlying deficiencies or promoting better dietary habits as part of overall skin care.