New Jersey Cosmetology State Board Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

In a healthy hair structure, the cuticle plays a vital role in providing strength and protection to the hair shaft. The cuticle is the outermost layer of the hair and consists of overlapping dead cells that form a protective barrier against physical damage and environmental factors.

The correct answer indicates that approximately 20% of the hair's overall strength is derived from the cuticle layer. This percentage underlines the importance of maintaining a healthy cuticle through proper hair care practices, such as using appropriate shampoos, conditioners, and minimizing exposure to damaging elements like excessive heat or chemical treatments.

Understanding the contribution of the cuticle helps in appreciating the overall structure of hair and the necessity of maintaining its integrity for optimal hair health. The choices reflecting higher percentages do not accurately represent the specific role of the cuticle compared to the contributions from the other layers of the hair, such as the cortex and medulla, which play more significant roles in overall strength.