When it comes to choosing the right products and perfecting your curly hair routine, knowing your hair’s porosity can make all the difference. Just like hair density, porosity falls into three main categories: low, medium, and high, and each type behaves differently when it comes to moisture.
SO, WHAT EXACTLY IS HAIR POROSITY?
Hair porosity describes how easily your hair can absorb and retain moisture. This is determined by the condition of the outer layer of your hair, known as the cuticle. While your porosity level is largely influenced by genetics, it can also change over time due to external factors like heat styling, chemical treatments, or bleaching, all of which can raise your hair’s porosity and potentially cause damage.
UNDERSTANDING HAIR POROSITY TYPES & HOW TO CARE FOR EACH ONE
So now you know that your hair’s porosity plays a major role in how it absorbs and retains moisture, which affects everything from how your curls behave to which products work best. Let’s break down the three porosity types and how to care for them:
LOW POROSITY HAIR
Low porosity hair has tightly packed cuticles that make it difficult for moisture and products to penetrate the strands. You might notice water sitting on top of your hair instead of soaking in, and it may take a long time to get fully wet or dry.
📌Curly Tips for Low Porosity
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- Lightweight products are your best friend! Buildup can happen easily, so avoid heavier products which are likely to leave a greasy residue or build up.
- Be mindful of protein-rich products. Low-porosity hair can become dry and stiff if it receives too much protein.
- Wet plopping after applying your products can help the products absorb more effectively. Cover your hair with a microfiber towel or shower cap to trap in heat.
- Incorporate a clarifying shampoo into your routine to avoid buildup.
MEDIUM POROSITY HAIR
Medium porosity hair has slightly raised cuticles, allowing it to maintain a healthy moisture balance. It typically absorbs water well, holds styles nicely, and dries at a moderate pace.
📌Curly Tips for Medium Porosity
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- Maintain a balanced routine by incorporating a mix of both moisture- and protein-based products.
- Switch it up! Pay attention to how your hair responds. If it feels dry, focus on hydration; if curls seem to fall flat or lose definition, incorporate more protein.
- Use a lightweight oil to help seal in moisture and protect hair from damage.
HIGH POROSITY HAIR
With high porosity hair, the cuticles are lifted or even damaged, allowing moisture to enter easily but also escape just as fast. This type of hair tends to get wet quickly and dry just as fast, often leading to frizz, dryness, or breakage.
📌Curly Tips for High Porosity
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- Deep condition regularly by using deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture and strengthen hair.
- Finish with a cool water rinse to help seal the cuticle and lock in hydration.
- Use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove buildup.
- Heat protection is crucial to avoid any further damage. Use products that contain ingredients to protect and help nourish the hair.
Are you unsure about the type of porosity you have? Check out our recent Instagram post here and take the test!
Love Claire x
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