Red Seal Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the innermost layer of the hair known as?

1. Medulla

2. Cortex

3. Cuticle

4. Papilla

The correct answer is: Medulla

The innermost layer of the hair is known as the medulla. The medulla is responsible for giving hair its color and can be seen as the dark center of a hair strand when viewed under a microscope. The other options, cortex, cuticle, and papilla, are incorrect because they are located along the outer layers of the hair. The cortex is the middle layer responsible for providing strength and elasticity, while the cuticle is the outermost layer responsible for protecting the hair. The papilla, located at the base of the hair follicle, supplies nutrients to the hair for growth but is not considered an inner layer.