Skincare Skincare Ingredients 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What type of exfoliant is glycolic acid classified as?
- Beta-hydroxy acid (BHA)
- Polyhydroxy acid (PHA)
- Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) (Correct answer)
- Retinoid
Correct answer: Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA)
Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugarcane that exfoliates the skin's surface.
Question 2: Which ingredient is known as a 'humectant' that draws moisture from the environment into the skin?
- Dimethicone
- Petrolatum
- Glycerin (Correct answer)
- Squalane
Correct answer: Glycerin
Glycerin is a powerful humectant that attracts and holds water molecules to keep skin hydrated.
Question 3: Ceramides in skincare products help to:
- Exfoliate dead skin cells
- Restore and strengthen the skin barrier (Correct answer)
- Reduce melanin production
- Stimulate collagen production
Correct answer: Restore and strengthen the skin barrier
Ceramides are lipids that make up approximately 50% of the skin barrier and help retain moisture and protect against irritants.
Question 4: Which antioxidant vitamin is commonly listed on ingredients labels as 'tocopherol'?
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Vitamin E
Tocopherol is the INCI name for vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from oxidative damage.
Question 5: What is benzoyl peroxide primarily used for in skincare?
- Anti-aging
- Treating acne by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation (Correct answer)
- Brightening hyperpigmentation
- Deep moisturization
Correct answer: Treating acne by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation
Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) and helps unclog pores, making it effective for acne treatment.
Question 6: Peptides in skincare products are short chains of amino acids primarily used for which benefit?
- Exfoliation
- UV protection
- Signaling skin to produce more collagen and elastin (Correct answer)
- Oil control
Correct answer: Signaling skin to produce more collagen and elastin
Peptides act as signaling molecules that communicate with skin cells to stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Skincare Skincare Ingredients 2
What type of exfoliant is glycolic acid classified as?