New Jersey State Board Esthetics Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Folliculitis is defined as the inflammation of the hair follicles. This condition can occur due to various factors, including infection by bacteria or fungi, irritation from shaving or waxing, and blockage of follicle openings. When hair follicles become inflamed, they can appear red, swollen, and may be accompanied by pus-filled lesions or discomfort. Recognizing folliculitis is important in esthetics, as it may influence treatment choices for clients and highlight the need for proper hygiene and aftercare during hair removal procedures.

The other options represent different skin conditions or reactions that, while they might be relevant in an esthetic context, do not accurately define folliculitis. For instance, dry skin conditions can arise from various internal and external factors but are unrelated to follicle inflammation; conditions caused by waxing could lead to irritation or even folliculitis but do not encompass the broader understanding of folliculitis as an inflammatory response; and allergic reactions to products might result in redness or swelling of the skin, yet they are distinct from folliculitis, which specifically refers to the hair follicles' inflammation.