Redseal Hairstyling License Practice Test

Which part of the hair structure is referred to as the medulla?

1. Outer layer of the cuticle

2. Inner core of a hair strand

3. The shaft of the hair

4. Hair root

The correct answer is: Inner core of a hair strand

The medulla refers specifically to the inner core of a hair strand. It is composed of soft, spongy keratin and may be absent in some hair types. The medulla’s hollow structure can vary in size and density and contributes to the overall characteristics of the hair. Understanding the role of the medulla is important for hairstylists as it can influence the texture, thickness, and overall quality of the hair. The outer layer of the cuticle plays a protective role, providing a barrier against damage and moisture loss, while the shaft of the hair refers to the visible part of the hair above the scalp, which contains both the cuticle and the medulla. The hair root is the portion of the hair located below the surface of the scalp that is anchored in the follicle. Each of these parts has distinct functions, but the specific identification of the medulla as the inner core is essential for a comprehensive understanding of hair anatomy.