Washington Master Esthetics Practice Exam

What characterizes glove breakdown?

1. Discoloration

2. Tear resistance

3. Embrittlement

4. Water resistance

The correct answer is: Embrittlement

Glove breakdown is characterized by embrittlement, which refers to the loss of elasticity and flexibility in the material of the gloves over time. This can occur due to various factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals, prolonged use, or aging of the material itself. When gloves become embrittled, they are more prone to cracking and tearing, which compromises their protective qualities and can lead to breaches that expose the skin to harmful substances. Understanding embrittlement is crucial in the context of safe practices in aesthetic and medical settings, as using gloves that have degraded in this manner may not provide adequate protection against contaminants or chemical agents. Awareness of this phenomenon can help professionals select appropriate gloves for their work environment and ensure they replace them when signs of degradation begin to appear. Discoloration, tear resistance, and water resistance are characteristics that relate to the durability and appearance of gloves but do not directly describe the specific process of glove breakdown. Discoloration may indicate exposure to certain substances but does not necessarily mean the glove is compromised. Tear resistance relates to how well a glove can withstand physical stress before breaking, while water resistance refers to a glove's ability to repel moisture, neither of which directly pertains to the breakdown of the glove material itself.