New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the purpose of antiseptic oils like eucalyptus and thyme?

1. Moisturize the skin

2. Enhance scent

3. Destroy bacteria and heal skin eruptions

4. Exfoliate the skin

The correct answer is: Destroy bacteria and heal skin eruptions

Antiseptic oils such as eucalyptus and thyme have been traditionally recognized for their antimicrobial properties. The primary purpose of these oils lies in their ability to destroy bacteria, which is crucial in preventing infections and promoting skin healing, particularly in cases of skin eruptions like acne or minor wounds. These oils contain compounds that can inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, making them valuable in skincare. While they may provide a pleasant aroma, enhancing scent is not their main function. Additionally, these oils do not serve the purposes of moisturization or exfoliation. Moisturizing focuses on providing hydration to the skin, while exfoliation involves removing dead skin cells to improve texture and appearance; antiseptic oils do not primarily perform these functions. Thus, the correct identification of their purpose is to combat bacteria and facilitate the healing of the skin.