What does "hair porosity" refer to?

Hair porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb moisture. When assessing porosity, one looks at how well hair can take in and retain moisture, which is influenced by the condition of the hair cuticle. Hair with high porosity has gaps and holes in the cuticle, allowing moisture to easily enter but also making it difficult to retain moisture, which can lead to frizz and dryness. Conversely, low porosity hair has a tightly bound cuticle that resists moisture absorption, while medium porosity hair is typically more balanced, allowing for good moisture retention and absorption.

Understanding hair porosity is crucial for selecting appropriate hair care products and treatments, as different porosities require different approaches to maintain healthy hair. Recognizing this concept becomes essential for a cosmetologist in providing tailored advice and services to clients, ensuring that the right products are used to enhance hair health based on its porosity level.