California Cosmetology Written ExamClient Consultation and AnalysisHard
A cosmetologist observes that a client's hair grows in a circular pattern at the crown, causing the hair to stick up in that area when cut too short. What is this growth pattern called?
- AWhorl
- BWidow's peak
- CNape whorl only found on men
- DCowlick
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Whorl
A whorl is a circular growth pattern, often at the crown, where hair grows around a central point; a cowlick is a specific tuft that stands straight up, often at the front hairline. Since the question describes a circular pattern at the crown, this is a whorl.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A widow's peak is a V-shaped hairline point on the forehead, unrelated to crown growth.
- C. Whorls occur in all genders and are not exclusive to the nape.
- D. A cowlick is a tuft that stands up, typically at the front hairline, not a circular crown pattern.
Whorl (Growth Pattern)
A circular hair growth pattern, most commonly found at the crown, where hair radiates from a central point.
- Common at the crown of the head
- Can cause hair to stick up if cut too short
- Affects cutting and styling technique choices
- Other growth patterns include cowlick and widow's peak
Memory trick: Whorl = a whirlpool spinning at the crown.