California Cosmetology Practice Exam

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Prepare for your California Cosmetology State Board Exam with our comprehensive practice test. Featuring flashcards, multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations to reinforce your knowledge and confidence.

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What is the primary function of a humectant in skincare?

To exfoliate dead skin cells
To attract moisture to the skin
To add color to the skin
To seal in oil

The correct answer is: To attract moisture to the skin

The primary function of a humectant in skincare is to attract moisture to the skin. Humectants are substances that can hold onto water molecules, drawing them from the environment or deeper layers of the skin to the outer layer. This process helps to keep the skin hydrated, which is essential for maintaining its elasticity, barrier function, and overall health. By boosting moisture levels, humectants contribute to a plumper, more youthful appearance of the skin. Other options, while related to skin care, do not fulfill the role of humectants. Exfoliating agents, for example, focus on removing dead skin cells, while color additives provide pigment rather than hydration. Similarly, sealing in oil is typically the role of occlusive agents, which form a barrier on the skin's surface to prevent moisture loss, rather than attracting moisture itself.