Hair Porosity
Hair Porosity: How to Test It Scientifically?
Understanding hair porosity is essential for choosing the right hair care routine. But what exactly is hair porosity, and how can you test it in a simple and scientific way? Let’s break it down!
What is Hair Porosity?
Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. It depends on the cuticle layer, which consists of overlapping scales, similar to roof shingles. The more open these scales are, the more moisture your hair absorbs—and loses—quickly.
Types of Hair Porosity:
1. Low Porosity Hair:
• Tightly closed cuticles, making moisture absorption difficult.
• Products tend to sit on the surface rather than being absorbed.
• Needs lightweight products and heat to open the cuticles slightly.
2. Medium Porosity Hair:
• A balanced absorption and moisture retention level.
• Absorbs products well without losing moisture too quickly.
• Easy to style and maintains hydration for a reasonable time.
3. High Porosity Hair:
• Open cuticles due to genetics or damage.
• Absorbs moisture quickly but loses it just as fast.
• Needs proteins and heavy oils to seal in moisture.
How to Test Your Hair Porosity Scientifically?
1\ The Water Test (Most Popular Method)
• Take a clean, dry strand of hair.
• Drop it into a glass of room-temperature water.
• Results:
• If it floats: Low porosity.
• If it stays in the middle: Medium porosity.
• If it sinks quickly: High porosity.
2\ The Spray Test
• Spray a small amount of water onto a clean, dry strand.
• Results:
• If water beads up and stays on the surface: Low porosity.
• If it gradually absorbs: Medium porosity.
• If it soaks in instantly: High porosity.
Tips for your porosity:
✅ Low Porosity: Use lightweight, water-based products and apply gentle heat when moisturizing.
✅ Medium Porosity: Maintain hydration with a balanced conditioner and medium-weight oils.
✅ High Porosity: Use heavy oils, protein-rich masks, and seal moisture with butter or serum.
A simple test can help you unlock the secret to healthier hair! Try it and share your results with us