Indiana State Beauty Practice Exam

What is the primary function of skin serums?

1. To hydrate the skin

2. To deliver active ingredients directly to the skin

3. To provide a barrier against the sun

4. To exfoliate dead skin cells

The correct answer is: To deliver active ingredients directly to the skin

The primary function of skin serums is to deliver active ingredients directly to the skin. Serums are formulated with a high concentration of active components that are designed to penetrate deeply into the skin layers, addressing specific skin concerns such as aging, pigmentation, and hydration. Unlike moisturizers, which primarily add moisture and create a barrier, serums are lightweight and have smaller molecules that enable them to absorb more effectively, facilitating greater efficacy of the active ingredients. While hydration is also important to skin health, it is not the primary function of serums, as that role is typically fulfilled by moisturizers. Similarly, providing a barrier against the sun is a function associated with sunscreens and not serums. Exfoliation generally involves other products like scrubs or chemical exfoliants, rather than serums. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the unique and concentrated purpose of skin serums in skincare regimens.