Lesson Check: Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails

Functions of the skin include

• protecting the body from pathogens.

• controlling internal body temperature.

• sensing pressure, pain, heat, and cold.

• all of the above.

What is one way to keep the skin healthy?

• Washing with strong soap several times a day

• Frequently touching the skin with the hands

• Choosing nonirritating skin-care products

• Avoiding foods that are rich in vitamin A

A skin problem that is caused by a virus is

• warts.

• eczema.

• ringworm.

• athlete's foot.

Answer explanation

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), making them a viral skin problem. In contrast, eczema is an inflammatory condition, ringworm is a fungal infection, and athlete's foot is also fungal.

What can help control the spread of head lice?

• following a well-balanced eating plan

• frequently wearing hats

• frequently vacuuming at home

• using curling irons or hot combs

Answer explanation

Frequently vacuuming at home helps control the spread of head lice by removing any lice or eggs that may be present in carpets, furniture, and other surfaces, reducing the chances of re-infestation.

Which statement about nails is false?

• Keeping toenails long reduces the risk of nail infections.

• Nails are made of dead cells containing keratin.

• Trimming toenails straight across helps prevent ingrown nails.

• Nails protect and support the fingers and toes.

Answer explanation

The statement 'Keeping toenails long reduces the risk of nail infections' is false. In fact, long toenails can trap dirt and moisture, increasing the risk of infections.

The outer, thinner layer of the skin that contains both living and dead cells is the ____________.

• dermis

• epidermis

• melanin

• sebaceous glands

Answer explanation

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, consisting of both living and dead cells. It protects underlying layers and is thinner than the dermis, making it the correct answer.

The inner, thicker layer of the skin that contains blood vessels and nerves is the ___________.

• dermis

• epidermis

• melanoma

• sebaceous glands

Answer explanation

The dermis is the inner layer of the skin, located beneath the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue, making it essential for skin health and sensation.

A pigment that gives the skin, hair, and the irises of the eyes their color is _____________.

• epidermis

• melanin

• melanoma

• sebaceous glands

Answer explanation

The correct answer is melanin, which is the pigment responsible for the color of skin, hair, and eyes. Epidermis refers to the outer layer of skin, melanoma is a type of skin cancer, and sebaceous glands produce oil.

Structures within the skin that produce an oily secretion called sebum are _____________.

• dermis

• epidermis

• melanoma

• sebaceous glands

Answer explanation

Sebaceous glands are specialized structures in the skin that produce sebum, an oily secretion that helps to lubricate and protect the skin. The other options do not produce sebum.

The most serious form of skin cancer is ________________.

• epidermis

• melanin

• melanoma

• dermis

Answer explanation

The most serious form of skin cancer is melanoma, which originates in the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. Other options like epidermis and dermis refer to skin layers, while melanin is a pigment, not a cancer.