Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test 2025 - Free Esthetics Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The characteristic that best describes ethnic skin types is greater melanin content. Melanin is the pigment responsible for the coloration of skin, hair, and eyes. Individuals with ethnic skin types commonly have a higher concentration of melanin, which provides a natural level of protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation. This increased melanin helps reduce the risk of skin cancer and sun damage, but it also can lead to differences in the way skin responds to various treatments and products.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent a defining characteristic of ethnic skin. For instance, while certain skin types may exhibit varying sensitivity, it does not universally apply to all ethnic skin types. Additionally, the dermis layer's thickness can vary widely across individuals and is not exclusive to ethnic variations. Moisture retention can also differ based on factors like climate and skin care practices rather than being strictly related to ethnicity. Thus, the increased melanin content stands out as a key defining feature of ethnic skin.