Foaming cleansers that wash off easily contain a detergent that is also known as a(n) _____.

• A. Emulsifier
• B. Detergent
• C. Solvent
• D. Surfactant

Answer: (C)

Foaming cleansers work because the detergent acts as a solvent that dissolves oils and dirt so they can be rinsed away with water. This solvent action is what lets the cleanser wash off easily, leaving skin clean without heavy residue.

Emulsifiers blend oil and water but don’t provide the primary wash-off cleansing action by themselves. Surfactants describe the broader class that includes detergents and emulsifiers, giving foam and lowering surface tension, but the term that captures the dissolving, washing-away function in this context is solvent.