Colorado Cosmetology Written Practice Exam

Which part of the hair must be identified during corrective hair coloring?

1. Cortex

2. Cuticle

3. Medulla

4. Nucleus

The correct answer is: Cortex

The cortex is the correct answer because it is the primary layer of the hair where the color is deposited during the coloring process. Understanding the structure of the cortex is essential for any corrective hair coloring, as it contains the melanin granules that give hair its natural color and also plays a significant role in the hair's texture and strength. When dealing with corrective color, it is crucial to assess the condition of the cortex to determine how the hair will respond to the color applied, as it can significantly affect the end result. If the cortex is compromised or damaged, it may not hold color as effectively, leading to uneven results. Therefore, identifying the cortex helps the cosmetologist make informed decisions about the type of color and the methods to use. The cuticle, while important as the outermost layer that protects the hair, does not contain color. The medulla, located at the core of the hair shaft, is not typically a factor in hair coloring and is rarely present in all hair types, so it holds less relevance in this context. The nucleus, a cellular component not related to hair structure, does not play a role in hair coloring. Understanding these distinctions is fundamental in executing successful corrective hair coloring.