What is the primary characteristic of cellulitis?

The primary characteristic of cellulitis is an infection of the skin. This condition typically occurs when bacteria, often streptococcus or staphylococcus, enter the skin through a break or crack, leading to redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area.

Understanding cellulitis is crucial for estheticians, as they need to be aware of signs of infection that could occur following treatments that may compromise the skin barrier. Recognizing the signs of cellulitis is vital for ensuring client safety and health.

Other choices pertain to different skin conditions or types of infections but do not accurately define cellulitis. Pustules indicate a different type of infection or skin issue, and inflammation of hair follicles refers to folliculitis, while a viral infection specifically involves viruses rather than the bacterial cause of cellulitis. Thus, understanding that cellulitis stems specifically from a bacterial infection helps clarify its unique characteristics.