Washington Esthetics Practice Exam 2026 - Free Esthetician Practice Questions and Study Guide

The posterior auricular artery is responsible for supplying blood to the scalp, particularly the area behind and above the ear. This artery branches off from the external carotid artery and provides essential blood flow to the scalp's posterior regions, which is crucial for the health of the skin and hair in this area.

The other arteries listed serve different regions or structures. The angular artery, a branch of the facial artery, primarily supplies the facial structures around the nose and eyes rather than the scalp. The facial artery itself also focuses on the face, providing blood to the cheeks, lips, and other facial components but does not play a significant role in vascularizing the scalp. The submental artery, a branch of the facial artery, supplies blood to the chin and the floor of the mouth, which are unrelated to scalp vascularization. Understanding the specific functions of these arteries helps clarify why the posterior auricular artery is the most relevant choice for supplying blood to the scalp.