Cuticle (hair)

The hair cuticle is the outermost part of the hair shaft.[1] It is formed from dead cells, overlapping in layers, which form scales that strengthen and protect the hair shaft.[2][3]

Diagram of the hair shaft, indicating medulla (innermost), cortex, and cuticle (exterior.)

While the cuticle is the outermost layer, it is not responsible for the color of the hair. Melanin is the pigment that gives hair its color and is found in the cortex.[4]

See also

List of distinct cell types in the adult human body

References
  1. James, William; Berger, Timothy; Elston, Dirk (2005) Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology (10th ed.). Saunders. Page 8. ISBN 0-7216-2921-0.
  2. "Hair!". Worsleyschool.net. Retrieved 2016-06-13.
  3. "Hair". British Medical Association Complete Family Health Encyclopedia. Dorling Kindersley Limited. 1990.
  4. "Hair biology - hair fiber". Keratin.com. Retrieved 2013-08-18.
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