Louisiana Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Seborrhea primarily affects the sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing sebum, the natural oil that lubricates the skin and hair. When these glands become overactive, they produce an excess of oil, leading to conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis. This condition can manifest as red, flaky, and oily patches on the skin, particularly on the scalp and face.

The sebaceous glands play a crucial role in maintaining skin health, and any imbalance in their function can lead to various skin issues. Understanding this relationship is vital in esthetics, as it can influence treatment options for clients dealing with oily skin, dandruff, or other related conditions.

The other choices refer to areas that are not primarily affected by seborrhea: hair follicles can be influenced by oil production but are not the main site of concern; the nail bed is unrelated to seborrhea; and while the epidermis may show symptoms of seborrheic dermatitis, the underlying cause relates specifically to the sebaceous glands.