Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which skin type is most likely to require a heavier moisturizer?

1. Normal

2. Combination

3. Dry

4. Oily

The correct answer is: Dry

The skin type that is most likely to require a heavier moisturizer is dry skin. Individuals with dry skin often experience a lack of moisture and oil in their skin barrier. This condition can lead to feelings of tightness, flakiness, and even irritation. A heavier moisturizer is beneficial because it typically contains richer emollients and occlusives that provide a protective barrier, helping to lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss. This results in improved hydration and a more comfortable skin texture. In contrast, normal skin typically maintains a balanced moisture level and may not need the same level of hydration, while combination skin often has both dry and oilier areas, requiring targeted products rather than an overall heavier moisturizer. Oily skin generally produces excess sebum, so lighter, non-comedogenic products are preferable to avoid clogging pores. Therefore, heavy moisturizers are specifically tailored for the needs of dry skin to restore and maintain adequate hydration.