Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

In skin care, what does the term "pH" refer to?

1. Presence of hydration

2. Potential of hydrogen

3. Power of healing

4. Process of exfoliation

The correct answer is: Potential of hydrogen

The term "pH" refers to "Potential of Hydrogen," which is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is, on a scale of 0 to 14. In the context of skin care, understanding pH is crucial because it affects skin health and product efficacy. The skin's natural pH is typically around 4.5 to 5.5, which is slightly acidic. This acidity helps maintain the skin barrier, protects against bacteria, and supports overall skin function. When skin care products are formulated, their pH levels can significantly influence how they interact with the skin, either enhancing or disrupting the skin's natural balance. The other choices do not accurately represent the concept of pH. While hydration is related to skin health, it is not what pH stands for. The term "Power of healing" does not relate to the scientific definition of pH. Likewise, the "Process of exfoliation" refers to a specific skin care technique rather than a measure of acidity or alkalinity. Thus, the correct understanding of pH as the "Potential of Hydrogen" is essential for professionals in the esthetic field to properly care for and treat skin effectively.