Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What term describes fatty materials used to lubricate and moisturize the skin?

1. Emulsifiers

2. Cleansers

3. Emollients

4. Humectants

The correct answer is: Emollients

The term that describes fatty materials used to lubricate and moisturize the skin is emollients. Emollients are substances that help to soften and soothe the skin by forming a barrier that traps moisture in the skin and can improve its texture. They are particularly useful in preventing dryness and may come in various forms, such as creams, lotions, or ointments. Cleansers, on the other hand, are designed to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin rather than providing moisture. Emulsifiers are agents that help mix two substances that do not normally combine, like oil and water, and are not primarily intended for skin moisturizing. Humectants are substances that attract moisture from the environment into the skin, but they do not necessarily provide the same kind of fatty lubrication that emollients offer. Emollients play a crucial role in skincare by ensuring the skin remains hydrated, soft, and supple.