Which of the following refers to the ability of a substance to produce harmful effects on the body?

The term that refers to the ability of a substance to produce harmful effects on the body is toxicity. Toxicity is a critical concept in various fields, including pharmacology and esthetics, as it encompasses the potential adverse effects that can occur when an organism is exposed to a chemical or substance. Understanding toxicity is essential, especially for estheticians dealing with various products that may contain active ingredients.

In the context of skincare and esthetics, knowing the toxicity of ingredients can help professionals avoid formulations that may cause harm to clients, especially those with sensitive skin or underlying health conditions. Assessing products for their potential toxicity can guide safe application methods and ingredient selection.

Other terms like infectiousness refer to the ability of pathogens to spread infections, potency relates to the strength or effectiveness of a substance, and synergy describes the interaction of different substances that result in an enhanced effect. Knowing the distinction between these concepts and toxicity is crucial for ensuring client safety and effective practice.