NIC Esthetician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A cosmetic chemist is formulating a new serum and needs to ensure its stability and efficacy. They are particularly concerned with preventing oxidation of active ingredients, which can degrade the product and reduce its benefits. What type of chemical ingredient would be most effective in neutralizing free radicals and protecting the serum from oxidative damage?
- AAntioxidants
- BEmulsifiers
- CHumectants
- DPreservatives
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that can neutralize free radicals, thereby preventing oxidative damage to active ingredients in cosmetic formulations and protecting the product's stability and efficacy.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Emulsifiers help oil and water mix, not prevent oxidation.
- C. Humectants attract and retain moisture, not neutralize free radicals.
- D. Preservatives inhibit microbial growth, not chemical oxidation.
Antioxidants (Cosmetic Chemistry)
Ingredients in cosmetic formulations that neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative degradation of active ingredients and maintaining product stability and efficacy.
- Neutralize free radicals
- Prevent oxidative damage
- Maintain product stability/efficacy
Memory trick: Antioxidants are the 'anti-rust' for your serum.