Esthetician Practice Exam Esthetician Practice Chemistry and Product Ingredients Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary function of hyaluronic acid in skincare products?
- It exfoliates dead skin cells
- It attracts and retains moisture in the skin (Correct answer)
- It blocks UV radiation
- It inhibits melanin production
Correct answer: It attracts and retains moisture in the skin
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a powerful hydrating ingredient.
Question 2: Which of the following ingredients is classified as a keratolytic agent?
- Glycerin
- Retinol
- Salicylic acid (Correct answer)
- Niacinamide
Correct answer: Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that works as a keratolytic by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells to promote exfoliation.
Question 3: What pH range is considered ideal for the acid mantle of healthy skin?
- 2.0 to 3.5
- 4.5 to 5.5 (Correct answer)
- 6.5 to 7.0
- 7.5 to 8.5
Correct answer: 4.5 to 5.5
The acid mantle of healthy skin maintains a slightly acidic pH between 4.5 and 5.5, which helps protect against bacteria and environmental damage.
Question 4: Which vitamin derivative is most commonly used in skincare to stimulate collagen synthesis and reduce fine lines?
- Tocopherol
- Ascorbic acid (Correct answer)
- Panthenol
- Cyanocobalamin
Correct answer: Ascorbic acid
Ascorbic acid, the active form of vitamin C, is a potent antioxidant that stimulates collagen production and brightens skin tone.
Question 5: What type of emulsion is a standard moisturizing lotion?
- Water-in-oil
- Oil-in-water (Correct answer)
- Silicone-in-water
- Anhydrous
Correct answer: Oil-in-water
Most moisturizing lotions are oil-in-water emulsions, where small oil droplets are dispersed in a water base for a lightweight feel.
Question 6: Which ingredient acts as a chelating agent in cosmetic formulations?
- Sodium lauryl sulfate
- Disodium EDTA (Correct answer)
- Cetyl alcohol
- Dimethicone
Correct answer: Disodium EDTA
Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that binds metal ions in formulations, improving product stability and preservative efficacy.
What is the primary function of hyaluronic acid in skincare products?