CAC Product Knowledge & Cosmeceuticals Flashcards

Which sunscreen ingredient is a broad-spectrum UV filter that functions through a physical mechanism by reflecting and scattering UV radiation?

Answer: Zinc oxide

Zinc oxide is an inorganic (physical/mineral) UV filter that reflects and scatters both UVA and UVB radiation without a chemical reaction.

Salicylic acid (BHA) is preferred over AHAs for treating acne-prone and oily skin primarily because it is:

Answer: Lipid-soluble and can penetrate into sebaceous follicles

BHA's oil solubility allows it to penetrate pore linings and dissolve sebum and debris within follicles, making it ideal for comedonal and acne-prone skin.

The primary role of ceramides in topical skincare formulations is to:

Answer: Restore and reinforce the skin barrier by replenishing intercellular lipids

Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the skin's intercellular lipid matrix and topical application helps repair a compromised barrier.

Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is most effective and stable in topical products at a pH of:

Answer: Below 3.5

L-ascorbic acid requires an acidic environment below pH 3.5 for optimal skin penetration and antioxidant efficacy.

A client with a compromised skin barrier would most benefit from which combination of ingredients?

Answer: Ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids

The skin's natural barrier lipids consist of ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids in a roughly 3:1:1 ratio — replicating this restores barrier function.

Which antioxidant ingredient is often paired with vitamin C in formulations to enhance stability and provide synergistic protection against oxidative stress?

Answer: Vitamin E (tocopherol)

Vitamin E regenerates oxidized vitamin C and together they provide stronger protection against UV-induced free radical damage than either alone.