Oregon Esthetician State Board

What is a macule?

1. A raised area on the skin

2. A small, flat, discolored spot on the skin

3. A deep wound in the skin

4. A type of cancerous lesion

The correct answer is: A small, flat, discolored spot on the skin

A macule is defined as a small, flat, discolored spot on the skin, which can range in color from brown to red. These spots do not have any texture differences when compared to the surrounding skin; they are simply a change in color. Macules can be caused by various factors, including pigmentation changes, vascular changes, or inflammatory conditions. Understanding what constitutes a macule is essential for estheticians, as it helps distinguish between different skin conditions and informs appropriate treatment options. The other options describe different types of skin lesions or conditions; for instance, a raised area on the skin indicates a papule or plaque, a deep wound would suggest an ulcer or excoriation, and a cancerous lesion relates to abnormal cell growth, which is not limited to the characteristics of a macule.