Guía de Examen: Bioquímica en Cosmetología

Photosynthesis and Cellular Energetics

Chloroplasts are the specialized organelles within cells where the process of photosynthesis is conducted. A critical event within this cycle is photolysis, which is defined as the process during which the water molecule is broken down. During the dark phase of photosynthesis, the specific protein tasked with the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2CO_{2}) is Ribulose.

Biochemistry of Carbohydrates and Lipids

Carbohydrates play various roles in biological maintenance and cosmetic science. Glucose and fructose are classified as simple carbohydrates and are frequently utilized as fast-acting hydrating agents. For more complex needs, such as calming, repairing, and hydrating the skin, substances like hyaluronic acid and beta-glucans are employed.

Lipids are equally fundamental to biological structure. Phospholipids serve as the primary component of the permeable cell membrane. In dermatological contexts, ceramides are lipids that occur naturally in the skin and hair; these are particularly ideal for the treatment and maintenance of dry skin types.

Protein Structure and Enzyme Catalysis

Proteins are essential macromolecules formed by chains of amino acids, and their primary physiological functions include the formation and repair of various tissues throughout the body. Collagen and keratin are identified as fundamental protein components that make up the structure of the hair, skin, and nails.

Enzymes are specialized proteins that function as biological catalysts, accelerating chemical reactions within the organism. Every enzyme possesses a specific region known as the active site, which is the exact location where the chemical reaction occurs. It is an important distinction that enzymes are not single-use molecules; it is false to assume the body discards them after one use. In the field of aesthetics and biochemistry, the enzyme lipase is specifically used for the degradation of localized fat deposits.

Metabolic Pathways: Catabolism and Anabolism

Metabolism encompasses all chemical changes within a cell aimed at obtaining energy or building structures. A catabolic process is one where complex substances are broken down to create simpler substances, a process often tied to energy production. Conversely, an anabolic process involves the creation of complex substances from simpler precursors.

Several cosmetic active ingredients are known to stimulate anabolic pathways. Retinoids are used to stimulate cell renewal and the synthesis of collagen. Niacinamide is utilized to improve the skin's barrier function, control inflammation, and prevent cellular damage. Centella asiatica is valued for its ability to act as an antioxidant and for stimulating fibroblast synthesis.

Nucleic Acids and Genetic Information

The two primary types of nucleic acids are DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (Ribonucleic acid). DNA is the molecule responsible for guarding and storing the genetic information of the organism. RNA performs the functional role of utilizing the information stored in the DNA to manufacture the proteins necessary for life.

Human Physiology and the Digestive Process

The digestion and absorption of proteins involve a complex series of steps and specific organs. It is false to suggest that protein digestion begins in the mouth. Instead, the absorption of proteins follows a strictly ordered pathway: it begins in the small intestine, moves into the blood, is processed by the liver, and is finally delivered to the cells. The specialized cells of the small intestine are called enterocytes. While these cells are essential for absorption, it is false to claim that enterocytes are responsible for the formation of elastin and collagen.

The liver is the organ responsible for the formation of urea. The overall process by which the liver eliminates urea derived from the diet is referred to as digestion. Ultimately, the urea generated by these processes is expelled from the body by means of urine.

Dermal Health and the Skin Barrier

The skin barrier is of paramount importance because it serves as a protective shield for the body, guarding against bacteria and irritating substances while preventing transepidermal water loss. Maintaining this barrier ensures the skin stays healthy and hydrated. There are several factors that can damage the integrity of the barrier, including excessive sun exposure, the use of aggressive or harsh products, psychological stress, and a general lack of hydration.

Trichology and Hair Care Diagnostics

Determining the specific needs of hair involves observing its physical behavior under different conditions. If the hair feels "chicloso" (gummy or chewy) when it is wet, it is an indicator that the hair requires hydration. Similarly, if hair tangles easily or exhibits frizz, these are signs of a lack of hydration. However, if the hair feels rigid but does not break, the claim that it needs hydration is false.

Protein deficiency in hair presents different symptoms. If the hair breaks during the process of combing or styling, or if it stretches out and fails to return to its original shape, these are clear indicators that the hair is lacking in proteins.

Biological Reproduction and Organizational Facts

In the context of biological reproduction, it is false to state that sexual organs and sexual cells intervene during asexual reproduction. This process occurs without the involvement of gametes or specialized reproductive organs found in sexual reproduction.