Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

Which environmental factor can result in a yellow, grey, and sallow complexion?

1. Pollution

2. Diet

3. Smoking

4. Sun exposure

The correct answer is: Smoking

Smoking is recognized as an environmental factor that can significantly contribute to a yellow, grey, and sallow complexion. The chemicals in cigarette smoke can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which may cause discoloration of the skin. Additionally, smoking can reduce blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin, leading to a dull, lifeless appearance. It can also exacerbate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, resulting in premature aging, which often manifests as an unhealthy skin tone. Pollution can negatively affect skin health, as can diet and sun exposure, but the specific impact of smoking on complexion, combined with its potential to create a more pronounced sallow appearance, makes it a leading factor among the options provided. Each of these factors contributes to skin health, but smoking has a particularly direct and immediate effect on the skin's overall tone and vibrancy.