Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

What is the outer covering of the hair strand made up of overlapping layers of transparent scales?

1. Cuticle

2. Cortex

3. Medulla

4. Follicle

The correct answer is: Cuticle

The outer covering of the hair strand that consists of overlapping layers of transparent scales is known as the cuticle. This structure plays a crucial role in protecting the inner layers of the hair, specifically the cortex and medulla. The cuticle's scale-like structure helps to minimize damage from environmental factors, such as UV rays and pollution, while also providing a barrier against moisture loss. In healthy hair, the cuticle lies flat and smooth, which contributes to hair's shine and strength. When the cuticle is damaged or raised, hair can become rough, porous, and more susceptible to breakage. Other components of the hair structure include the cortex, which is the thickest layer providing strength and color, and the medulla, which is the innermost layer that may be absent in some hair types. The follicle, on the other hand, is not a part of the hair strand itself but rather the structure in the skin from which the hair grows. Understanding these different layers helps in hair care and treatment practices.