NIC Esthetician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A cosmetic chemist is formulating a new serum designed to target skin aging. They are particularly interested in ingredients that can protect the skin from damage caused by unstable molecules with unpaired electrons, which contribute to oxidative stress. Which class of ingredients would be most effective for this purpose?
- AAntioxidants
- BHumectants
- CSurfactants
- DEmollients
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that can neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules with unpaired electrons) by donating an electron, thereby preventing or reducing oxidative stress and damage to skin cells.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Humectants attract and bind water to the skin, providing hydration.
- C. Surfactants are cleansing agents that lower surface tension, typically found in cleansers.
- D. Emollients soften and smooth the skin's surface by filling in gaps between cells.
Antioxidant Function
Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit the oxidation of other molecules, thereby protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals (unstable molecules with unpaired electrons).
- Neutralize free radicals by donating electrons.
- Protect against oxidative stress from UV, pollution, etc.
- Examples: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid.
Memory trick: Antioxidants: Anti-oxidize, anti-aging.