Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

What process is used to soften grease deposits and blackheads in the hair follicle?

1. Desincrustation

2. Exfoliation

3. Microdermabrasion

4. Extraction

The correct answer is: Desincrustation

Desincrustation is a process that specifically targets and softens grease deposits, such as sebum and blackheads in the hair follicle. This technique typically involves the use of an electrotherapy device, which creates a reaction with a conductive solution applied to the skin. The resulting chemical reaction helps to emulsify the oil and debris, making it easier to extract and clean out the follicles during a facial or other treatment. This method is particularly beneficial for clients with oily or congested skin, as it prepares the area for further treatments such as extraction. It differs from other techniques like exfoliation, which removes dead skin cells from the skin's surface, or microdermabrasion, which uses physical exfoliation methods to improve skin texture overall. Extraction involves physically removing blackheads or plugs from the pores but is more effective after desincrustation has already softened these deposits.