Indiana State Beauty Practice Exam

Identify a common ingredient used for sun protection.

1. Vitamin C

2. Linoleic acid

3. Avobenzone

4. Glycerin

The correct answer is: Avobenzone

Avobenzone is recognized as a common ingredient used for sun protection because it effectively absorbs UV radiation, specifically UVA rays, which can cause skin damage, photoaging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. It is often incorporated into sunscreen formulations due to its stability and effectiveness in providing broad-spectrum protection. While Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals caused by sun exposure, it isn't primarily a sun protection agent. Linoleic acid is a fatty acid that plays a role in maintaining the skin barrier and can help with hydration, but it does not provide guard against UV radiation. Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture into the skin, which is beneficial for hydration but has no direct role in sun protection. Thus, avobenzone stands out as the primary ingredient among the choices provided for its specific function in safeguarding the skin from the harmful effects of the sun's rays.