HAIR POROSITY TEST
HIGH
Low
NORMAL
LOW POROSITY
Characteristics
Water absorption is slow, drying time is long.
The cuticle is closed making it difficult for moisture to penetrate the strand causing product buildup.
Maintenance
Indirect heat NEEDED to lift cuticles.
Lightweight oils recommended: grapeseed, sweet almond, argan, etc.
Use liquid/water based products
Humectants are beneficial ingredients like aloe vera, honey, glycerin, and flaxseed that help retain moisture in your hair.
To take care of your hair, use only silk, hydrolyzed, and wheat proteins. These proteins are small enough to go beneath your hair.
Hair needs to be clarified for better moisture retention.
Porosity is the ability of your hair to absorb and retain moisture.
NORMAL POROSITY
Characteristics
Water is easily absorbed in your hair
Hair usually holds up well when using chemical treatments (easy to overuse )
The cuticle is slightly open which allows moisture to last longer.
Maintenance
Requires the least maintenance since it allows the right amount of moisture in & out.
Use minimal heat & lightweight products
Continue regular deep conditioning treatments to maintain good product absorption.
Detangle your hair with your fingers as opposed to a wide-tooth comb.
HIGH POROSITY
Characteristics
Prone to frizz & breakage
Easily tangled & matted
Absorbs water quickly & dries quickly
The cuticle is open allowing the absorption of moisture BUT it evaporates quickly
Maintenance
Use minimal heat; best to air dry.
The use of heavier oils & butters are recommended to lock moisture in (coconut, castor, olive, etc).
Layer products to decrease the loss of moisture
Protein treatments are NEEDED regularly