Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is one of the roles of estrogen in skin protection?

1. Increases collagen production

2. Serves as a sunblock

3. Acts as an inflammatory mediator

4. Regulates skin pH

The correct answer is: Acts as an inflammatory mediator

Estrogen plays a significant role in skin protection by contributing to various physiological processes. It is well-established that one of estrogen's key functions is enhancing collagen production. This increased collagen contributes to skin elasticity and firmness, which helps maintain the skin's structural integrity and can prevent signs of aging. While estrogen does interact with inflammatory pathways, seeing it primarily as an inflammatory mediator does not encapsulate its protective functions comprehensively. Rather than serving to mediate inflammation in a detrimental way, estrogen supports the skin by promoting healing and maintaining a healthy barrier function. The options that describe estrogen acting as a sunblock or regulating skin pH do not accurately depict its primary roles. Estrogen does not block UV radiation like conventional sunscreens, nor is there a direct role in regulating skin acidity levels typically attributed to other factors such as sebaceous gland activity. In summary, estrogen is pivotal in increasing collagen production, thereby contributing to the overall protection and resilience of the skin.