Redseal Hairstyling License Practice Test

What are flakes or dry patches consisting of excess dead epidermal cells called?

1. Scales

2. Crusts

3. Scabs

4. Patches

The correct answer is: Scales

Flakes or dry patches consisting of excess dead epidermal cells are referred to as scales. This term specifically describes the buildup of dead skin cells that can occur due to a variety of conditions, such as dry skin or certain skin diseases. Scales can manifest as small, flake-like pieces that may be easily brushed off or remain attached to the skin's surface. Other terms, like crusts, scabs, and patches, refer to different skin conditions or characteristics. Crusts are often formed from dried bodily fluids and are usually associated with healing lesions or wounds, while scabs specifically indicate a protective crust that forms over a wound as it heals. Patches may refer more broadly to areas of skin with a change in texture or color, but they do not specifically indicate the presence of dead epidermal cells in the form of flakes or scales. Thus, scales is the most accurate descriptor for the condition described in the question.