Milady Cosmetology Practice Exam

What are the three main layers of the hair shaft?

1. Cuticle, Cortex, and Medulla Layer

2. Cuticle, Epidermis, and Follicle

3. Cortex, Medulla, and Dermis

4. Cuticle, Cortex, and Sebum

The correct answer is: Cuticle, Cortex, and Medulla Layer

The three main layers of the hair shaft are indeed the cuticle, cortex, and medulla. The cuticle forms the outermost layer of the hair and is composed of overlapping, scale-like cells that protect the inner layers from damage and dehydration. This layer plays a crucial role in the overall health and appearance of the hair, as it determines the hair’s shine and is essential for preventing moisture loss. Beneath the cuticle lies the cortex, which makes up the majority of the hair's structure. It is responsible for the strength, color, and elasticity of the hair, as it contains keratin and is also where pigment is found. The cortex is vital for hair's durability and plays a significant role in how the hair behaves and responds to treatments. The innermost layer, the medulla, is not always present in every hair type, especially finer hairs. It is generally composed of a soft, spongy tissue and adds some internal support to the hair shaft but is less critical for the hair's overall function compared to the other two layers. The other options include layers and structures that are not accurate in the context of the hair shaft. The epidermis and dermis relate to the skin rather than the structure of hair