Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which skin type can benefit most from fatty acids?

1. Oily skin

2. Normal skin

3. Dry and sensitive skin

4. Combination skin

The correct answer is: Dry and sensitive skin

Fatty acids are beneficial for maintaining the skin's barrier function and providing hydration, making them particularly advantageous for dry and sensitive skin. This skin type often struggles with moisture retention and can be susceptible to irritation and inflammation. Fatty acids help to restore the skin's lipid barrier, which can alleviate dryness and enhance overall skin texture. In contrast, while oily skin may not necessarily require additional lipids, normal skin can benefit from balanced hydration but does not have the same urgent need for fatty acids. Combination skin also experiences different areas that may require different treatments; the oily regions might not benefit from fatty acids in the same way that dry areas would. Hence, dry and sensitive skin stands out as the type that will see the most significant improvements when fatty acids are incorporated into its skincare regimen.