Washington Cosmetology License Practice Exam

Which skin condition is characterized by excessive dryness and flakiness?

1. Psoriasis

2. Dermatitis

3. Eczema

4. Acne

The correct answer is: Dermatitis

The characteristic of excessive dryness and flakiness is most commonly associated with dermatitis. Dermatitis refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the skin, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and flaking. Among different types of dermatitis, conditions like contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis can particularly display these symptoms prominently. While other skin conditions also have dry skin as a feature, dermatitis stands out with its defining symptoms of irritation and flakiness, making it the correct answer in this case. Psoriasis, on the other hand, is also marked by flakiness but is more specifically associated with the rapid turnover of skin cells, leading to thick, silvery scales. Eczema can also have dry and flaky skin but tends to be more associated with itching and inflammation. Acne, on the contrary, is primarily a condition involving clogged pores and is not characterized by dryness.