Pivot Point International, Inc. SFE Textbook changes Page 30
s k i n p h y s i o l o g y
a
Salon Fundamentals
TM
Esthetics
8
Lesions
A lesion is a change in the structure of the skin tissue. It is most often caused by injury, damage or skin
conditions and diseases. Lesions on the skin help the esthetician identify certain skin conditions at
various stages. There are two types of lesions: primary and secondary.
P R I M A R Y
A macule (MAK-yool) is a
discoloration on the skin's
surface. Macules are flat
areas, and although they
are usually rounded and
distinct, they may be oval,
irregular or have an outline
that gradually fades into
surrounding tissues. A
large freckle is an example
of a macule.
A wheal (weel) is a solid
formation above the skin,
often caused by insect
bites or an allergic
reaction. It is a sharply
defined or solid, raised
pink swelling or welt that
rises above the skin.
A papule (PAP-yool) is
a small elevation of the
skin, usually inflammatory,
that does not contain pus.
Papules are similar to
vesicles in size, and if
they progress, they can
become pustules.
A pustule (PUST-yool) is
a small inflamed elevation,
the next step in the
progression from a papule,
filled with bacterial fluid
and pus. Pustules appear
red and cloudy or white.
MACULE
WHEAL
PAPULE
PUSTULE
