Cosmetology · Hair and Scalp Science

Which layer of the hair contains the melanin that gives hair its natural color?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Cortex

A Cuticle
B Medulla
C Cortex
D Follicle

Why this is the answer

The cortex is the middle layer of the hair shaft and contains the melanin (pigment) that gives hair its natural color, as well as providing most of the hair's strength and elasticity. Chemical services such as haircolor and perms work primarily within the cortex, which is why the cuticle must be opened to allow products to reach it. The cuticle is the protective outer layer, and the medulla is the innermost core. Understanding that natural color and chemical changes center on the cortex is frequently tested.

Source: Scientific Concepts — Hair Color and the Cortex

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About this topic: Hair and Scalp Science

Hair and scalp science covers the structure of the hair (cuticle, cortex, medulla), the follicle and growth cycle, hair types and the common scalp and hair disorders — which can be treated in the salon and which must be referred. This is one of 9 Scientific Concepts questions on hair and scalp science, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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Which layer of the hair contains the melanin that gives hair its natural color?

Why this is the answer

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About this topic: Hair and Scalp Science

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