Indiana PSI Nail Technician Practice Test

Which of the following gives the skin form and strength?

1. Lymph

2. Keratin

3. Collagen

4. Melanocyte

The correct answer is: Collagen

Collagen is the protein that provides skin with form and strength. It is a critical component of the skin's structure, contributing to its firmness and elasticity. Found in the dermis, collagen fibers create a supportive framework that helps maintain the skin’s integrity and overall appearance. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to a loss of skin elasticity and the formation of wrinkles. This makes collagen essential for keeping the skin healthy and resilient. While keratin is also important because it is a key structural protein in hair and nails, its primary role lies in providing strength and protection to these structures rather than directly contributing to the skin's overall form. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color but does not impact its structural integrity. Lymph is part of the immune system and involved in fluid circulation, but it doesn’t play a role in providing strength or form to the skin like collagen does.