Arizona Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the name of the small cavities in the scalp from which hair emerges?

1. Hair root

2. Hair follicle

3. Hair shaft

4. Hair bulb

The correct answer is: Hair follicle

The small cavities in the scalp from which hair emerges are called hair follicles. The hair follicle is a key structure in the hair growth process, encapsulating the hair root and providing the necessary environment for the hair to grow. Inside the follicle, cells divide and produce the hair shaft, which is the visible part of the hair. Understanding the function of hair follicles is crucial for cosmetologists, as they play a significant role in hair health and growth. Issues related to hair growth, such as thinning or loss, often stem from problems with the hair follicles. Recognizing the structure and function of hair follicles helps professionals provide better care and treatments for their clients' hair concerns. The other terms refer to different aspects of hair anatomy. The hair root is the part of the hair that is below the surface of the scalp, while the hair shaft is the visible part of the hair that extends above the skin. The hair bulb is the rounded part at the base of the hair follicle where hair growth begins, but it is not the cavity itself from which hair emerges.