Colorado Esthetician Written Practice Exam

The common term for closed comedones is "whiteheads." Closed comedones occur when hair follicles become clogged with sebum (oil) and dead skin cells, resulting in small, flesh-colored bumps on the skin. These bumps are referred to as "whiteheads" because they appear as small white or skin-colored plugs beneath the skin's surface due to the follicle's closure. This closure prevents exposure to air, which is why they do not oxidize and turn black like open comedones, or blackheads. Understanding the terminology and characteristics of various types of comedones is essential in the field of esthetics, as it aids in diagnosing and treating different skin conditions effectively.

The incorrect options relate to other skin issues: blackheads are open comedones, inflammation refers to a more general reaction of the skin, and milia are small cysts filled with keratin, often appearing around the eyes but are not the same as closed comedones.