Wisconsin Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which term describes ingredients that are likely to clog pores?

1. Emollients

2. Comedogenic

3. Surfactants

4. Thickeners

The correct answer is: Comedogenic

The term that describes ingredients likely to clog pores is "comedogenic." Comedogenic ingredients have a tendency to form comedones, which are the common skin blemishes such as blackheads and whiteheads. These can occur when the pores become blocked with excess oil, dead skin cells, and other impurities. In the context of skincare, understanding whether an ingredient is comedogenic is crucial for individuals who are prone to acne or have oily skin. Products containing comedogenic ingredients can exacerbate these conditions, leading to further breakouts and skin issues. The other types of ingredients mentioned, like emollients, surfactants, and thickeners, serve different functions. Emollients are primarily used to soften and smooth the skin but are not inherently clogging. Surfactants are used for cleansing and reducing surface tension, and thickeners modify the viscosity of products without necessarily being comedogenic. Therefore, focusing on the term comedogenic specifically highlights its direct association with pore-clogging potential.