Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What does alipidic refer to in skin conditions?

1. Lack of oil or "lack of lipids"

2. Excess oil production on the skin

3. Healthy moisture balance in the skin

4. Skin prone to acne breakouts

The correct answer is: Lack of oil or "lack of lipids"

Alipidic refers to a condition of the skin characterized by a lack of oil, or more specifically, a deficiency of lipids. Lipids are natural fats essential for maintaining the skin’s protective barrier and moisture retention. When the skin is alipidic, it can appear dry, rough, and flakey, as the absence of these oils hinders its ability to retain moisture. This condition often requires specific moisturizing treatments to help restore the skin’s lipid barrier and improve hydration levels. In contrast, the other choices describe different skin conditions: excess oil production is more characteristic of oily skin types, while a healthy moisture balance indicates a normal skin type. Skin prone to acne breakouts typically involves factors such as excess oil and clogged pores rather than a deficiency of lipids. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in providing effective skin care recommendations and treatments.