Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the name of the study that focuses on the functions of the skin?

1. Dermatology

2. Physiology

3. Anatomy

4. Histology

The correct answer is: Physiology

The study that focuses on the functions of the skin is referred to as physiology. Physiology examines the various processes and functions that occur within living organisms, including how the skin operates in terms of its role in protection, temperature regulation, sensation, and other vital functions. Understanding skin physiology is essential for estheticians, as it provides insight into how different treatments and products may affect skin health and functionality. On the other hand, while dermatology is the branch of medicine dealing with skin disorders and diseases, it encompasses more than just the functions of the skin. Anatomy refers specifically to the structure of the body and its organs but does not address how they work. Histology, the study of microscopic structures of tissues, provides important information about the skin's composition and can inform practice but does not focus on its functions specifically. Thus, physiology is the most appropriate choice for understanding the functions of the skin within the context of esthetics.