What term refers to flaky skin cells?

The term that refers to flaky skin cells is "scale." In dermatology, scales are defined as thin, dry, or flaky pieces of skin that can appear as a result of various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or dry skin. Scales can be composed of dead skin cells that shed unevenly, leading to a buildup that results in a rough or flaky texture on the skin's surface.

Understanding the characteristics of scales is important for estheticians because it can help in diagnosing skin conditions and determining appropriate treatments. For instance, recognizing the difference between scales and other types of skin changes, like patches (which are larger, flat areas of altered skin), nodules (which are solid, raised bumps that can vary in size), or plaques (which are elevated, flat-topped lesions often formed by a cluster of scales), assists in the effective communication of skin health concerns to clients.

Overall, the use of the term "scale" accurately describes the nature of flaky skin cells and is essential for effective skin analysis and treatment planning in esthetics.