New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the main function of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)?

1. Antiseptic

2. Preservative

3. Disinfectant

4. Exfoliant

The correct answer is: Disinfectant

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds, commonly referred to as quats, serve primarily as disinfectants due to their ability to kill or inactivate a wide range of microorganisms. They are frequently utilized in both household and industrial cleaning products because of their effectiveness against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Quats work by disrupting the cell membrane of pathogens, leading to cell death. This property makes them particularly valuable in settings that require stringent hygiene protocols, such as salons, spas, and healthcare facilities. While quats can exhibit preservative qualities in formulations, their primary role is not to preserve products but to sanitize surfaces and equipment. They are also not classified as antiseptics, which are used primarily on living tissues to reduce the incidence of infection, nor are they exfoliants, which are designed to remove dead skin cells. Therefore, the main function of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds is their disinfectant properties, which provide a critical function in maintaining clean and safe environments.