Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What role do pH adjusters or buffers play in skin care products?

1. Enhancing fragrance

2. Protecting skin

3. Improving color

4. Increasing viscosity

The correct answer is: Protecting skin

pH adjusters or buffers play a crucial role in maintaining the acidity or alkalinity of skin care products. Skin has a natural pH level, typically around 4.5 to 5.5, which is important for maintaining its barrier function and overall health. By ensuring that products remain within this optimal pH range, pH adjusters help protect the skin from irritations and disruptions to its microbiome. When skin care products are formulated with the appropriate pH, they can enhance the absorption of active ingredients and prevent potential skin irritations that can arise from products that are too acidic or alkaline. This protective function is essential for products that target sensitive skin or conditions such as acne, where the skin barrier may be compromised. In contrast, enhancing fragrance, improving color, and increasing viscosity relate to different aspects of product formulation that do not directly involve the protective role of pH adjusters. Therefore, recognizing the significance of maintaining proper pH levels underscores the importance of these buffers in providing safe and effective skin care solutions.