Understanding Hair Porosity: What It Is and Why It Matters

Hair porosity is a key concept in hair care that describes how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. It’s determined by the structure and condition of your hair’s cuticle, the outermost layer. Here’s a breakdown of what it is and why it matters:

What is Hair Porosity?

Hair porosity refers to your hair's ability to absorb and hold onto moisture. This characteristic depends on the condition of the cuticle, which is made up of overlapping, scale-like cells. There are three main types of hair porosity:

1. Low Porosity: The cuticle layers are tightly packed, making it harder for moisture to penetrate the hair shaft. Hair with Low Porosity can be resistant to absorbing products and may take longer to dry.

2. Medium (Normal) Porosity: The cuticle layers are moderately spaced, allowing a balanced amount of moisture to enter and exit the hair. This porosity type is generally considered ideal because it means hair can easily retain moisture and remain healthy with proper care.

3. High Porosity: The cuticle layers are more lifted or damaged, allowing moisture to enter and exit the hair shaft easily. Hair with High Porosity often absorbs products quickly but can also lose moisture just as fast, making it prone to dryness and frizz.

How to Determine Your Hair Porosity

You can determine your hair porosity through simple tests:

• Float Test: Take a few strands of clean, product-free hair and place them in a glass of water. If the hair sinks quickly, it’s likely High Porosity. If it floats or takes a while to sink, it’s likely Low Porosity.

• Slip ‘n’ Slide Test: Slide your fingers up and down a strand of hair. If it feels smooth and slippery, it might be Low Porosity. If it feels bumpy or rough, it’s likely High Porosity.

Why Hair Porosity Matters

Understanding your hair porosity helps you choose the right products and care methods:

• Product Selection: Low Porosity hair benefits from lighter products that won’t weigh it down, while High Porosity hair might need heavier, more moisturizing products to help retain moisture.

• Application Techniques: For Low Porosity hair, using heat (like a warm towel) can help open the cuticle and allow products to penetrate better. High Porosity hair may benefit from sealants to lock in moisture.

• Moisture Management: Knowing your porosity helps you avoid over-moisturizing or under-moisturizing your hair, leading to healthier, more manageable locks.