New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

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Prepare for the New Jersey State Board Esthetics Exam with confidence. Study essential topics, utilize questions with explanations, and get ready to excel in your test!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

What is the main function of sebum?

To exfoliate the skin
To protect and lubricate
To enhance skin color
To absorb moisture

The correct answer is: To protect and lubricate

The main function of sebum is to protect and lubricate the skin. Sebum is an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands, which helps maintain the skin's moisture balance by providing a barrier that prevents excessive water loss. This lubrication is essential for keeping the skin soft and supple, thereby contributing to overall skin health. Additionally, the protective properties of sebum help shield the skin from environmental factors such as pollutants and bacteria, promoting a healthier complexion. In contrast, exfoliating the skin involves the removal of dead skin cells and is typically achieved through physical or chemical means, which sebum does not directly perform. Enhancing skin color is more related to pigments and techniques rather than the natural functions of sebum, and while sebum can contribute to a healthy sheen, it does not absorb moisture; rather, its role is to prevent moisture loss. Thus, the protective and lubricating properties of sebum are crucial for maintaining skin integrity and health.