Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is a key benefit of using products with surfactants?

1. They promote hydration

2. They improve product stability

3. They lift dirt and oils from the skin

4. They provide anti-aging benefits

The correct answer is: They lift dirt and oils from the skin

The key benefit of using products with surfactants is that they effectively lift dirt and oils from the skin. Surfactants are compounds that reduce the surface tension between two substances, such as water and oil. This property allows them to interact with both water and oil molecules, facilitating the removal of impurities from the skin's surface and ensuring a thorough cleanse. As a result, surfactants are widely used in cleansing products like facial cleansers, shampoos, and body washes. While it is true that some surfactants may contribute to the overall stability of a formulation, or that certain products may contain moisturizing ingredients that promote hydration, these are not the primary roles of surfactants. Additionally, surfactants do not inherently provide anti-aging benefits; they are mainly focused on cleansing properties. Therefore, their primary function in formulation is to help cleanse the skin by lifting away dirt and oils, making the third option the correct choice.