Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What role does sodium lauryl sulfate serve in cleansers?

1. As a moisturizer

2. As an emulsifier

3. As a surfactant

4. As a astringent

The correct answer is: As a surfactant

Sodium lauryl sulfate is a surfactant, which means it has the ability to lower the surface tension of water, allowing oil and water to mix. This is particularly important in cleansers, as it helps to effectively remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin. By breaking down oils, sodium lauryl sulfate allows water to wash them away easily, enhancing the overall cleansing process. Surfactants are essential in formulations to create foam and improve product spreadability, which are key functions in many types of cleansers, including facial washes and body soaps. This property makes sodium lauryl sulfate a critical ingredient for achieving the desired cleansing effect in these products.