Milady Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the primary role of the Arrector Pili Muscle?

1. Change skin color

2. Regulate blood flow

3. Cause hair to stand upright

4. Assist with sweating

The correct answer is: Cause hair to stand upright

The primary role of the Arrector Pili muscle is to cause hair to stand upright. This muscle is a small, smooth muscle that is attached to hair follicles in the skin. When it contracts, it pulls the hair follicle upright, a phenomenon known as piloerection. This action is commonly associated with the physiological response to cold temperatures or emotional stimuli such as fear. The erection of the hair can serve to trap air for insulation in cold conditions, creating a layer of warmth, or can provide a visual display of aggression or intimidation in response to fear. The other options relate to different functions within the integumentary system. For example, changing skin color is typically related to pigmentation and can involve melanocytes, which aren't influenced by the Arrector Pili muscle. Regulating blood flow is more closely associated with blood vessels and their ability to constrict or dilate rather than with the action of muscle contraction related to hair follicles. Lastly, while sweating is an important function of the body for temperature regulation, it primarily involves sweat glands and does not involve the Arrector Pili muscle directly.