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. What makes BHA (beta hydroxy acid) particularly effective for acne-prone skin? → It is oil-soluble and can penetrate inside pores
5. Which treatment is NOT typically recommended for active rosacea? → High-strength AHA chemical peels
6. Melasma is a skin condition characterized by: → Brown or gray-brown patches typically on the face due to excess melanin
7. Which ancient culture developed the practice of applying kohl around the eyes, a predecessor to modern eyeliner? → Ancient Egypt
8. Which UVA/UVB protection rating system is used in Japan and Asia to indicate protection against UVA rays? → PA+ system
9. Which treatment approach is commonly used for moderate-to-severe cystic acne that has not responded to topical treatments? → Oral isotretinoin (Accutane)
10. How should retinol products typically be introduced into a skincare routine? → Start with low concentration a few times per week
11. What is the primary role of humectants in skincare formulations? → To draw moisture from the environment into the skin
12. Which ingredient is known as a 'humectant' that draws moisture from the environment into the skin? → Glycerin
13. The phrase used to describe the horny (outer) layer of skin peeling and shedding is? → Exfoliation
14. Which type of sweat glands are found all over the body and primarily regulate body temperature? → Eccrine glands
15. What term describes the process by which dead skin cells shed from the surface of the skin? → Desquamation
16. What skin condition occurs when melanocytes produce excess melanin in localized areas? → Hyperpigmentation
17. What is the name of the skin's natural moisturizing factor (NMF)? → A group of hygroscopic compounds in the stratum corneum
18. 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
19. Which ancient Mesoamerican civilization used cacao (chocolate) in their skincare and beauty rituals? → The Aztec and Maya civilizations
20. Which structural protein gives skin its elasticity and ability to return to its original shape? → Elastin
21. Which professional-grade chemical peel ingredient penetrates deepest and is used for treating severe wrinkles, scars, and deep pigmentation? → Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) 35%
22. Psoriasis is caused by which underlying mechanism? → An overactive immune response causing rapid skin cell turnover
23. Which acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from milk and is gentler than glycolic acid? → Lactic acid
24. What was the name of the cosmetics line founded by Estee Lauder? → Cirem Cosmetics
25. Sunscreens with an SPF of 30 block approximately what percentage of UVB rays? → 97%
26. What is the primary mechanism of action of alpha arbutin in skincare? → Inhibits tyrosinase to reduce melanin production
27. Seborrheic dermatitis most commonly affects which areas of the body? → Scalp, face, and oily areas of the body
28. What breakthrough discovery in the 1980s fundamentally changed the anti-aging skincare industry? → The identification of retinoids' effect on skin cell turnover
29. What is the primary function of sebaceous glands? → Secrete sebum to lubricate skin and hair
30. Which scientific development in the early 20th century led to the understanding of vitamins and their role in skin health? → The isolation of specific vitamins like A, C, and E