Hair Structure Flashcard

Front

What is the outermost layer of the hair called?

Back

Cuticle

Answer explanation

The outermost layer of the hair is called the cuticle. It consists of overlapping cells that protect the inner layers, including the cortex and medulla. The cortex is the middle layer, while the follicle is the hair root structure.

Front

Which layer of hair serves as a barrier between the outside world and the cortex?

Back

Cuticle

Answer explanation

The cuticle is the outermost layer of hair that acts as a protective barrier, shielding the cortex from environmental damage. It is essential for maintaining the integrity of the hair structure.

Front

What is the main protein that makes up hair?

Back

Keratin

Answer explanation

The main protein that makes up hair is keratin. It is a fibrous structural protein that provides strength and resilience, unlike elastin and collagen, which are more associated with skin and connective tissues.

Front

Which layer of hair is where the actual hair color and texture changes occur?

Back

Cortex

Answer explanation

The cortex is the middle layer of hair where the actual color and texture changes occur. It contains melanin, which gives hair its color, and its structure affects the hair's texture.

Front

What type of bond is broken to create permanent changes in hair shape?

Back

Disulfide bonds

Answer explanation

Disulfide bonds are strong covalent bonds that link sulfur atoms in hair proteins. Breaking these bonds allows for permanent changes in hair shape, unlike hydrogen and salt bonds, which are weaker and temporary.

Front

What is the purpose of the dermal papilla in the hair follicle?

Back

Feeds the hair with nutrients

Answer explanation

The dermal papilla is crucial for hair follicles as it supplies essential nutrients to the growing hair. This nourishment supports hair development and health, making 'feeds the hair with nutrients' the correct answer.

Front

What happens to the cuticle layer when exposed to heat?

Back

It opens.

Answer explanation

When exposed to heat, the cuticle layer opens, allowing moisture and other substances to penetrate. This is why heat treatments can enhance the effectiveness of hair products.

Front

Which of the following statements is true regarding the medulla? It is the outermost layer of hair., It has a significant purpose in hair health., It is often absent in fine hair types., It is where keratin is produced.

Back

It is often absent in fine hair types.

Answer explanation

The medulla is often absent in fine hair types, making this statement true. It is not the outermost layer, does not significantly impact hair health, and is not where keratin is produced.

Front

What does the cuticle layer primarily affect in hair treatments?

Back

Long-term color change and texture change.

Answer explanation

The cuticle layer of hair affects both long-term color change and texture change. It protects the inner layers and influences how treatments penetrate, making 'Both a and b' the correct choice.

Front

Why is it important for hairstylists to understand the structure of hair?

Back

To ensure safe and effective hair manipulation

Answer explanation

Understanding hair structure is crucial for hairstylists to ensure safe and effective hair manipulation. This knowledge helps them choose appropriate techniques and products, minimizing damage and achieving desired results.