Milady Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a principal function of the skin?

1. Absorption

2. Sensation

3. Regeneration

4. Secretion

The correct answer is: Regeneration

The principle functions of the skin include absorption, sensation, and secretion, all of which play essential roles in maintaining the body’s interactions with its environment. Absorption allows the skin to take in moisture and various substances, providing the body with hydration and other benefits. Sensation involves the skin's ability to perceive stimuli such as touch, temperature, and pain through a network of nerve endings. Secretion refers to the process through which the skin produces and excretes substances, including oils and sweat that help regulate body temperature and maintain skin health. While regeneration is an important process for the skin to repair itself after injury, it is not classified as a principal function of the skin in the same way that absorption, sensation, and secretion are. Regeneration is more about the skin's response and healing capabilities rather than a fundamental function that supports daily physiological processes. Therefore, the identification of regeneration as not a principal function aligns with the understanding of the skin's roles and processes.