Washington Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What does it indicate if a product is described as anhydrous?

1. It is primarily water-based

2. It does not contain any water

3. It is in a gel form

4. It has low viscosity

The correct answer is: It does not contain any water

A product described as anhydrous indicates that it does not contain any water. This term is derived from the Greek prefix "an-" meaning "without" and "hydros," meaning "water." Anhydrous products can include oils, balms, and other formulations that rely on oils or waxes as their primary base instead of water. Understanding the nature of anhydrous products is essential because they often have different properties and functions compared to water-based products. For instance, they may be more concentrated, have a longer shelf life, and can provide more effective hydration and nourishment without the presence of water that could lead to degradation or microbial growth. In the context of cosmetic formulation, identifying whether products are anhydrous can help estheticians choose the right products for specific skin types or conditions, as well as to understand how these products interact with the skin.