Utah Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

Which ingredient does not require specifics on cosmetic labeling?

1. Water

2. Fragrance

3. Preservatives

4. Active ingredients

The correct answer is: Fragrance

Fragrance is typically exempt from the specific labeling requirements that apply to other cosmetic ingredients. The reason for this exemption is that fragrances may consist of a combination of many components, and revealing each individual ingredient can compromise trade secrets. Therefore, manufacturers are permitted to list "fragrance" or "parfum" on the ingredient label without disclosing the individual components that make up the fragrance blend. This practice allows companies to protect their proprietary formulations while still complying with regulatory requirements for cosmetic labeling. In contrast, other ingredients like water, preservatives, and active ingredients have specific labeling requirements to ensure consumer safety and product transparency. Water is often listed as the first ingredient, being a primary component in many formulations, while preservatives are crucial for preventing microbial growth and must be clearly identified on the label. Active ingredients, which are critical for the efficacy of a cosmetic product, also require clarity in labeling to inform consumers about their roles and concentrations.