Cuticle

Definitions

(Noun) The outer ring of a cross-section of a strand of hair, This layer consists of flake like layers, similiar to scales of a fish, when damaged it gives the appearance of dull hair, but when smoothed down (this is what hair conditioner does) it allows more light to reflect of the hair strand which gives the appearance of strong, glossy, healthy looking hair.

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(Noun) outer part of skin surrounding nail