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What effect does nicotine have on the body?

  1. Expansion of blood vessels

  2. Lowering heart rate

  3. Contraction of the blood vessels

  4. Improving oxygen flow

The correct answer is: Contraction of the blood vessels

Nicotine is known to cause contraction of blood vessels, a process referred to as vasoconstriction. This reaction occurs because nicotine stimulates the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine, which leads to tightening of the smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels. As a result, the diameter of the blood vessels decreases, leading to increased blood pressure as the same volume of blood is forced through a narrower space. This vasoconstriction effect is a significant reason why nicotine can have various negative impacts on cardiovascular health. It can contribute to higher heart rates and increased workload on the heart, leading to potential long-term health issues. Understanding this effect is crucial for estheticians, especially when considering the implications of nicotine use on skin health, as reduced blood flow can lead to less oxygen and fewer nutrients reaching the skin, ultimately affecting its appearance and healing ability.