Final answer:
The outermost layer of the hair, the cuticle, provides a protective barrier for the inner structures of the hair. It consists of dead cells packed with keratin and originates from the hair matrix. Similar to the skin's epidermis, the cuticle provides protection against various environmental elements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The outermost layer of the hair you're referring to is known as the cuticle. This layer consists of dead cells packed with keratin, creating a protective barrier for the inner structures of the hair. It originates from the hair matrix and is visible in a cross-section of a hair bulb.
The cuticle, along with other layers like the internal and external root sheath, forms the hair follicle. The internal root sheath surrounds the root of the growing hair and extends up to the hair shaft, while the external root sheath encloses the hair root. The glassy membrane is a thick layer of connective tissue that surrounds the base of the hair follicle, connecting it to the dermis.
Similar to the skin's epidermis, the hair's cuticle layer plays a crucial role in providing protection. Its presence helps safeguard the hair and skin from elements of nature, such as wind, water, UV sunlight, grit, microbes, or harmful chemicals.
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