Skincare Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Skincare facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) supports anti-aging skin goals by performing which of the following functions? → Reducing hyperpigmentation, strengthening the barrier, and minimizing pore appearance
2. What is the primary goal of using an occlusive dressing or wound-healing technique called moist wound healing? → To maintain a moist environment that promotes faster cell migration and healing
3. Which structural protein is primarily responsible for skin firmness and youthful plumpness? → Collagen
4. Which treatment is NOT typically recommended for active rosacea? → High-strength AHA chemical peels
5. Melasma is a skin condition characterized by: → Brown or gray-brown patches typically on the face due to excess melanin
6. Which treatment approach is commonly used for moderate-to-severe cystic acne that has not responded to topical treatments? → Oral isotretinoin (Accutane)
7. Which ingredient is known as a 'humectant' that draws moisture from the environment into the skin? → Glycerin
8. The phrase used to describe the horny (outer) layer of skin peeling and shedding is? → Exfoliation
9. Which type of sweat glands are found all over the body and primarily regulate body temperature? → Eccrine glands
10. What term describes the process by which dead skin cells shed from the surface of the skin? → Desquamation
11. What is the name of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF)? → A group of hygroscopic compounds in the stratum corneum
12. After a medium or deep chemical peel, which instruction is MOST critical for clients? → Avoid all sun exposure and use SPF 50+ religiously during healing
13. Which structural protein gives skin its elasticity and ability to return to its original shape? → Elastin
14. Which professional-grade chemical peel ingredient penetrates deepest and is used for treating severe wrinkles, scars, and deep pigmentation? → Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 35%
15. Psoriasis is caused by which underlying mechanism? → An overactive immune response causing rapid skin cell turnover
16. What was the name of the cosmetics line founded by Estee Lauder? → Cirem Cosmetics
17. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 block approximately what percentage of UVB rays? → 97%
18. What is the primary mechanism of action of alpha arbutin in skincare? → Inhibits tyrosinase to reduce melanin production
19. Seborrheic dermatitis most commonly affects which areas of the body? → Scalp, face, and oily areas of the body
20. What is the primary function of sebaceous glands? → Secrete sebum to lubricate skin and hair
21. Which skin type is characterized by enlarged pores, excess sebum production, and a shiny appearance? → Oily skin
22. What type of women were the cosmetae? → Slaves
23. Which tonic lotion is ideal for use on skin that is oily or prone to breakouts? → Astringents
24. Azelaic acid is commonly used in skincare to address which conditions? → Acne and rosacea
25. What distinguishes a medical esthetician from a regular esthetician? → Medical estheticians provide esthetic services in a medical setting
26. Ceramides in skincare products help to: → Restore and strengthen the skin barrier
27. What is the Fitzpatrick scale used to classify in dermatology? → Skin type based on response to UV light and sun-burning tendency
28. Which antioxidant vitamin is commonly listed on ingredients labels as 'tocopherol'? → Vitamin E
29. What is the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name for vitamin C? → Ascorbic acid
30. What is rosacea primarily characterized by? → Chronic facial redness, flushing, and sometimes visible blood vessels