Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is a notable characteristic of eccrine glands?

1. They are concentrated in the genital area.

2. They are connected to hair follicles.

3. They have ducts and pores for secretion release.

4. They secrete oil rather than sweat.

The correct answer is: They have ducts and pores for secretion release.

Eccrine glands are a type of sweat gland that play a crucial role in thermoregulation and maintaining the body's fluid balance. A significant characteristic of these glands is that they have ducts and pores through which they secrete sweat directly onto the surface of the skin. This mechanism allows for effective cooling of the body through evaporation, making eccrine glands integral to human physiology. In contrast to other types of glands, eccrine glands do not connect to hair follicles nor do they secrete oil; instead, they primarily produce a watery secretion that is composed mainly of water, salt, and other substances. While eccrine glands are found throughout the body, their concentration is highest on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and forehead, rather than in the genital area. Understanding these characteristics is essential for estheticians, as they inform practices related to skin care and body treatments.