Texas Class A Barber Written ExamShaving and Facial ServicesMedium

A barber is conducting a skin analysis and observes small, white, pearl-like cysts under the skin, usually around the eyes and cheeks. What are these commonly identified as?

  1. AMilium.
  2. BComedones.
  3. CPustules.
  4. DPapules.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Milium.

Milium (plural: milia) are small, white, benign cysts that form when keratin becomes trapped beneath the skin's surface, commonly appearing around the eyes and cheeks.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Comedones are hair follicles clogged with oil and dead skin cells, appearing as blackheads (open) or whiteheads (closed), but not usually pearl-like cysts.
  • C. Pustules are inflamed, pus-filled lesions, typically red.
  • D. Papules are small, solid, elevated lesions, usually red, but not white cysts.

Milium (Milia)

Tiny, pearl-like cysts formed when keratin becomes trapped under the skin, often appearing around the eyes, nose, and cheeks.

  • Benign and non-inflammatory.
  • Commonly mistaken for whiteheads.
  • Extraction requires careful, sterile lancing by a professional.

Memory trick: Look Closely, Name the Blemish, Treat with Care, No Reckless Damage.

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