Study for the Florida Barber License Test. Prepare with interactive quizzes and in-depth explanations to master the exam content. Get ready to excel!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the name of the coloring matter that provides natural color to hair and skin?

  1. Melanin

  2. Keratine

  3. Cholesterol

  4. Collagen

The correct answer is: Melanin

Melanin is the term that describes the natural pigment found in hair, skin, and eyes, which gives them their color. This pigment is produced by specialized cells called melanocytes, and its presence and concentration determine the color of an individual's hair and skin. Higher levels of melanin result in darker shades, while lower levels yield lighter colors. The other choices are not related to coloration. Keratin is a type of protein that is a key structural component of hair, skin, and nails, providing strength and resilience but not color. Cholesterol is a type of lipid found in cell membranes and is vital for bodily functions but does not influence pigmentation. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and elasticity to skin and connective tissues, again unrelated to color. Therefore, melanin is unequivocally the correct answer, as it is the active component responsible for the pigmentation in hair and skin.