Michigan Esthetician State Board Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

The term used to describe various poisonous substances produced by some microorganisms is "toxins." Toxins are specific chemical substances that can have harmful effects on the host organisms, causing a variety of health issues. They are often associated with specific bacteria and other microorganisms and can lead to serious illness or disease when they enter the body.

Understanding the nature of toxins is crucial in the field of esthetics and skin care, as certain toxins can affect the skin and overall health. Being knowledgeable about the presence and effects of toxins allows estheticians to make informed decisions when using products and treating clients.

Bacteria, while they can produce toxins, do not refer specifically to the poisonous substances themselves. Antigens are foreign substances that induce an immune response in the body and are not synonymous with toxins. Viruses are a type of microorganism that can cause disease but do not produce toxins in the same way that some bacteria do. This highlights why the correct answer focuses on "toxins" specifically as the term encapsulating those harmful substances.