National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the term for a cream specifically designed to remove excessive hair?

1. Moisturizer

2. Depilatory

3. Exfoliant

4. Emollient

The correct answer is: Depilatory

The correct term for a cream specifically designed to remove excessive hair is a depilatory. Depilatories are formulated with active ingredients that break down the structure of the hair, allowing it to be easily wiped or washed away from the skin's surface. These products typically contain chemicals such as calcium thioglycolate or potassium thioglycolate, which work effectively to dissolve hair, providing a painless alternative to shaving or waxing. In contrast, a moisturizer is designed to hydrate and maintain the skin's moisture barrier, while an exfoliant is intended to slough off dead skin cells, promoting a smoother skin texture and encouraging cell turnover. An emollient, on the other hand, serves to soften and soothe the skin but does not have any hair removal properties. Thus, understanding the function and purpose of depilatories in comparison to these other products clarifies why the term accurately describes creams used for hair removal.