Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which type of glands are sweat glands classified as?

1. Exocrine glands

2. Endocrine glands

3. Sebaceous glands

4. Apocrine glands

The correct answer is: Exocrine glands

Sweat glands are classified as exocrine glands because they secrete their products (sweat) onto the surface of the skin through ducts. Exocrine glands release substances directly to a specific area, which is crucial for their function in thermoregulation and waste excretion. In contrast, endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream, affecting distant target organs, but do not have ducts. While sebaceous glands, like sweat glands, are also exocrine glands, they secrete an oily substance (sebum) that lubricates the skin and hair rather than a watery secretion like sweat. Apocrine glands, on the other hand, are a specific type of sweat gland that become active at puberty and are associated with hair follicles, primarily found in areas like the underarms. However, the general classification of sweat glands encompasses both eccrine and apocrine types, solidifying their role as exocrine glands.