Skin Analysis and Conditions
What the exam tests
Skin analysis questions test whether you can separate skin type from skin condition, recognize lesion types, identify contraindications, and refer disease rather than treat it.
Core concepts
- Skin type is largely genetic: normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive are common descriptors. Skin condition is changeable: dehydration, acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, aging, and sensitization.
- Fitzpatrick phototypes I to VI estimate sunburn and pigmentation risk; they guide treatment intensity, not diagnosis.
- Primary lesions include macule, papule, pustule, vesicle, and nodule. Secondary lesions include scale, crust, excoriation, and scar.
- A comedo is a plugged follicle; a pustule contains pus; milia are keratin-filled cysts, not acne.
- Active infection, open lesions, unexplained rashes, and suspected skin cancer require referral.
Worked example
A client has persistent redness across the cheeks with small papules and says hot facials make it worse. Reasoning: the pattern suggests rosacea, a condition requiring medical care. The esthetician should avoid heat, vigorous massage, strong exfoliation, and vasodilating products, use gentle barrier support, and refer for diagnosis. Continuing an aggressive facial could trigger a flare.
Traps that cost marks
Calling rosacea a skin type; treating milia as pustules; extracting inflamed papules; confusing dehydration with dry skin; and promising to cure pigmentation. Also watch for clients who cannot state whether a lesion is new or changing: refer rather than speculate.