Arizona Esthetics State Board Practice Exam

Chemical hair removers are commonly referred to as what?

1. Depilatories

2. Exfoliants

3. Epilation products

4. Moisturizers

The correct answer is: Depilatories

Chemical hair removers are commonly referred to as depilatories. These products work by breaking down the protein structure of the hair, allowing it to be easily wiped away from the skin's surface. Depilatories typically contain active ingredients such as calcium thioglycolate or potassium thioglycolate, which effectively dissolve hair, making them a quick and effective method for hair removal. Exfoliants, on the other hand, are designed to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin rather than removing hair. While they can enhance the overall appearance of the skin, they do not target hair removal specifically. Epilation products involve methods that remove hair from the root, such as waxing or tweezing, which is different from the action of depilatories. These methods often result in longer-lasting hair removal compared to the temporary effects of depilatories. Moisturizers are formulated to hydrate and nourish the skin, but they do not have any hair removal properties. Their primary function is to improve skin texture and maintain moisture levels. Recognizing these distinctions helps clarify why depilatories are the proper term for chemical hair removers.