Hair porosity is a crucial factor for curly and afro hair care, being its ability to absorb and retain moisture. Understanding it will allow you to select the right products and improve the health of your curls.
Low Porosity:
Low porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles, which makes it difficult to absorb moisture. This type of hair is usually water-resistant and takes a while to get wet. To care for it, use light products and avoid excessive protein. Moderate heat can help open the cuticles and improve the absorption of moisturizing treatments.
Average Porosity:
Known as normal porosity, this hair type allows moisture to enter and exit easily. It is the easiest to manage and tends to hold treatments longer. Products balanced in moisture and protein work best for this hair type.
High Porosity:
High porosity hair has raised or damaged cuticles, which allows moisture to enter quickly but also to be lost just as quickly. This type of hair is more prone to frizz and breakage. To care for it, use products rich in humectants and sealants to retain moisture. Avoid excessive use of heat and harsh chemicals.
How to Identify Your Hair Porosity:
- Glass of Water Test: Place a clean hair in a glass of water. If it sinks quickly, you have high porosity. If it floats in the middle, you have medium porosity. If it stays on the surface, your hair is low porosity.
- Slip Test: Run your fingers through a section of hair, from the tips to the roots. If you feel bumps, you probably have high porosity due to open cuticles.
Knowing your hair porosity will help you personalize your hair care routine, optimizing hydration and keeping your curls and afros healthy and vibrant. Adapt your products and techniques according to your porosity type to achieve the best version of your hair every day!
