Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is typically the nature of the damage caused by smoking and drinking alcohol?

1. It is easy to reverse and treat

2. It shows immediate signs of improvement

3. It is hard to reverse or diminish

4. It can be fully restored with hydration

The correct answer is: It is hard to reverse or diminish

The damage caused by smoking and drinking alcohol is typically hard to reverse or diminish due to the long-term effects these habits have on the body, particularly the skin. Smoking can lead to reduced blood flow, which means less oxygen and fewer nutrients are delivered to the skin; this contributes to premature aging, wrinkles, and a dull complexion. Alcohol, on the other hand, is dehydrating and can cause inflammation, redness, and increased oil production, leading to skin issues like acne or rosacea. Both smoking and drinking alcohol can result in cumulative damage over time, which includes changes in skin texture and tone, loss of elasticity, and an increased appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While some improvement may occur with lifestyle changes, skincare, and treatment, complete restoration of skin health is often challenging due to the deep-seated damage inflicted by these substances. Therefore, the nature of the damage is generally recognized as hard to reverse or diminish.