Montana Cosmetology Licensure Practice Exam

Which skin condition is characterized by excessive oil production?

1. Athlete's foot

2. Psoriasis

3. Seborrhea

4. Eczema

The correct answer is: Seborrhea

Seborrhea is characterized by excessive oil production in the skin. It is a condition that can lead to an oily appearance and may also cause flaky or scaly patches on the skin. This excessive oil production often occurs in areas with a high concentration of sebaceous (oil) glands, such as the scalp and face. Seborrhea can manifest in various degrees, from mild dandruff to more severe cases leading to seborrheic dermatitis, which involves inflammation and more noticeable symptoms. In contrast, athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the feet and is not associated with oil production. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that leads to rapid skin cell turnover, resulting in red patches covered with thick, silvery scales, and is not primarily linked to oil production. Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a condition characterized by dry, itchy skin and inflammation but also does not involve excessive oil production. Thus, seborrhea stands out as the condition specifically tied to an overproduction of oil.