North Carolina Cosmetic Arts Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using a serum in a skincare regimen?

1. To deliver concentrated active ingredients deep into the skin

2. To act as a moisturizer for the face

3. To clean the skin of makeup

4. To serve as a sunblock

The correct answer is: To deliver concentrated active ingredients deep into the skin

The primary purpose of using a serum in a skincare regimen is to deliver concentrated active ingredients deep into the skin. Serums are typically formulated with a higher concentration of active ingredients than other skincare products, such as moisturizers or cleansers. This allows them to penetrate the skin more effectively and deliver targeted benefits, such as hydrating, brightening, or anti-aging effects. Serums often have a lighter consistency compared to creams, enabling them to soak in quickly and reach the deeper layers of the skin. This characteristic is particularly beneficial when addressing specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, pigmentation, or dehydrated skin, where deeper penetration of actives can yield better results. In contrast, while moisturizers are designed to hydrate and may contain some active ingredients, their primary function is to provide a barrier to prevent moisture loss and keep the skin soft. Cleansers serve to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin's surface, which is not the intended purpose of a serum. Additionally, sunblocks are formulated specifically to protect the skin from UV damage and do not have the same targeted asset delivery functions that serums possess.