New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

How would you describe seborrheic dermatitis?

1. A chronic inflammatory condition with redness and scaling

2. A severe skin rash with red, scaly, pinkish/yellow patches with oily appearance

3. A type of acne

4. A mild peeling skin condition

The correct answer is: A severe skin rash with red, scaly, pinkish/yellow patches with oily appearance

Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized as a chronic inflammatory skin condition that manifests with red, scaly patches that can vary in color from pink to yellow. The affected areas may also have an oily appearance due to excessive sebum production. This condition typically occurs on the scalp (often presenting as dandruff), but it can also appear on the face, particularly around the nose, eyebrows, and behind the ears, as well as in other areas where the skin is oily. The key features that make this description accurate are the combination of redness, scaling, and the greasy texture of the patches, which sets it apart from other skin conditions. The other descriptions lack certain critical elements that define seborrheic dermatitis. For instance, while chronic inflammatory conditions may involve redness and scaling, they may not specifically highlight the oily nature or the characteristic yellowish tint of the scales associated with seborrheic dermatitis. Additionally, while acne is a common skin condition marked by pimples and comedones, it is fundamentally different from seborrheic dermatitis in terms of underlying causes and presentation. Mild peeling skin conditions, while possibly related, do not encapsulate the inflammation and distinct appearance of seborrheic dermatitis.