Iowa Cosmetology Practice Exam 2026 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The answer selected highlights dermatitis as the skin condition characterized by inflammation. Dermatitis is a broad term that encompasses various inflammatory conditions affecting the skin. It can manifest in several forms, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis, each associated with red, inflamed, itchy patches of skin.

The hallmark of dermatitis is its inflammatory nature, leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and discomfort. Understanding that dermatitis can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, irritants, or underlying health issues, helps in recognizing it as a prevalent and treatable skin condition.

While eczema is often used interchangeably with dermatitis, it's most accurately described as a specific type of dermatitis, particularly atopic dermatitis. However, the term dermatitis applies more broadly across different forms of skin inflammation. In contrast, other options, such as asthma, are respiratory conditions and do not pertain to skin issues or inflammation. Psoriasis, while also an inflammatory skin condition, is typically associated with a specific autoimmune response and distinct characteristics that differentiate it from dermatitis.