Which of the following is a common method to buffer acidic skincare products?

In skincare formulations, buffering agents are substances added to help maintain a stable pH level, particularly when dealing with acidic products. Acidic skincare products, such as those containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), can be beneficial for exfoliation and improving skin texture, but they need to be balanced to avoid irritation. By incorporating buffering agents, formulators can neutralize excessive acidity, providing a more balanced formulation that is gentler on the skin.

Buffering agents are particularly effective because they can enhance the stability and effectiveness of active ingredients without causing irritation, ensuring that the product can deliver its intended benefits while minimizing potential adverse reactions. This practice is vital in developing skincare that is both effective and safe for consumer use.

The other options, such as fragrances, mineral oil, and alcohol, do not serve the purpose of buffering acidity. Fragrances are primarily added for scent, mineral oil acts as an emollient for moisture retention, and alcohol can sometimes be drying or irritating, especially in high concentrations. Thus, while they may have their own roles in skincare formulations, they do not function to buffer acidity in the way that buffering agents do.