Louisiana Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Emollients are classified as oil or fatty ingredients primarily because they serve the purpose of softening and moisturizing the skin. These ingredients create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, helping to lock in moisture and improve hydration. This characteristic is particularly important for maintaining skin flexibility and reducing water loss.

Emollients work by filling the spaces between skin cells, thereby smoothing the texture and providing a more supple feel. Common examples of emollients include oils like jojoba oil, shea butter, and other fatty substances that contribute significantly to skin care formulations.

While water-based ingredients may offer hydration, they lack the occlusive properties that emollients provide, which are crucial for retaining moisture and preventing dryness. Alcohol-based ingredients can lead to dehydration and irritation, making them unsuitable as emollients. Mineral-based ingredients, while beneficial for other purposes, do not serve the primary function of softening the skin and are not classified as emollients.