Maryland Cosmetology State Practice Exam

How many layers does the cuticle of hair have?

1. 5-10 layers

2. 7-14 layers

3. 15-20 layers

4. 20-25 layers

The correct answer is: 7-14 layers

The cuticle is the outermost layer of hair and provides protection for the inner layers. It is made up of overlapping scales, similar to the shingles on a roof. The average person's hair has 7-14 layers in the cuticle, making option B the correct answer. Option A is incorrect because it is too low of a range and would not provide enough protection for the hair. Option C is incorrect because it is too high of a range and would be unnecessary for the hair. Finally, option D is incorrect because it is an even higher range, which would not be found in most people's hair.