What is porosity?
If you have curls, you’ve probably heard the word "porosity." But what does it really mean?
In short, porosity is your hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture – and it affects how your hair responds to every product you use. It’s one of the reasons that no matter how many moisturizing treatments you do on your curls, if they aren’t compatible with your hair’s porosity level, your hair may still feel dry. The right products for you will impart moisture to your curls and help seal it in.
We measure porosity in three different categories:
High porosity: Your hair easily absorbs moisture, but likely doesn’t hold onto it well.
Medium porosity: Your hair absorbs moisture at a steady rate and retains it well.
Low porosity: Your hair struggles to absorb moisture, but once it’s there, it holds onto it.
What is my porosity?
The easiest way to find out your hair's porosity is to try a Float Test. The method is simple.
Fill a glass with water.
Drop a few strands of your hair into the glass of water.
Observe the strands for 1-2 minutes.
High porosity: Your hair sinks quickly.
Medium porosity: Your hair sinks slowly.
Low porosity: Your hair floats.
High porosity:
Hair with high porosity is the result of raised cuticle layers. This texture can absorb too much moisture and loses moisture quickly. Using heavy products like butters and creams works great for high porosity hair. They will help seal in moisture. That’s why the L.O.C. method works well for this type of hair. I believe the Natural Hair community is starting to understand that this method doesn’t work for everyone and it’s not about texture, but simply about porosity.
Characteristic of high porosity:
Lacks shine
Medium porosity:
Hair with medium porosity often requires the least maintenance. The cuticle layer is more relaxed, allowing just the right amount of moisture to enter while preventing excessive escape. Hair with normal porosity tends to hold styles well and can respond well to chemical processes like coloring, bleaching, etc. Over time, however, these processes can damage your hair and increase its porosity.
Occasional deep conditioning treatments with protein softeners can benefit medium porosity hair, but proteins should not be included in your daily routine.
Characteristics of medium porosity:
. Looks healthy
. Is resilient
. Has elasticity
Low porosity:
This texture is quite resistant to moisture absorption and products seem to sit on the hair. The cuticles are extremely compact and appear to be overlapping. For this texture, lightweight products are the best choice. If you end up using a heavier, creamy product, give your hair a heat boost to open the cuticle layer. Also, rinsing your hair with warm water is better than the rule of 'rinse with cold water to avoid frizz.' Remember, one size does not fit all!
Characteristics of low porosity:
. Looks very healthy
. Lacks elasticity