Hair Porosity Guide for Curly Hair
Have you ever heard the term “hair porosity” and wondered what it actually means? You’re not alone! There are so many terms floating around when it comes to curl care, but understanding hair porosity is a total game-changer when it comes to moisture retention and hydration.
In simple terms, hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. And guess what? Knowing your porosity level can help you choose the best products and perfect your hair routine for healthy, thriving curls!
The Three Hair Porosity Types
Your hair’s porosity level is usually classified into three categories:
✔ Low porosity – Moisture struggles to get in but stays locked in once absorbed.
✔ Medium porosity – A balanced level where moisture flows in and out with ease.
✔ High porosity – Hair absorbs moisture quickly but loses it just as fast.
What Exactly is Hair Porosity?
Think of porosity like a sponge! A sponge with large holes soaks up water instantly, while a dense, tightly packed sponge takes longer to absorb moisture. Hair works in a similar way! Your hair cuticle (the outer layer of the strand) determines how easily moisture can penetrate and how long it stays locked in.
While genetics play a major role in your porosity level, things like heat styling, chemical treatments, and UV exposure can also change your hair’s ability to retain moisture over time.
How to Test Your Hair Porosity at Home
Not sure what porosity your hair is? Here are three simple tests you can do right now!
1. The Float Test (The Easiest!)
1️⃣ Take a clean, product-free strand of hair.
2️⃣ Drop it into a glass of water.
3️⃣ Wait a few minutes:
If it floats? You likely have low porosity hair.
If it sinks? You have high porosity hair.
If it hovers in the middle? That’s medium porosity hair.
Source: naturallclub
2. The Strand Test (Feeling is Everything!)
1️⃣ Take a single strand of hair and slide your fingers from the tip to the root.
2️⃣ If it feels smooth, your cuticle is tightly bound = low porosity.
3️⃣ If you feel bumps along the way, your cuticle is more open = high porosity.
3. The Spray Bottle Test (A Quick Spritz!)
1️⃣ Spray a section of dry hair with water.
2️⃣ Observe how fast it absorbs:
Beads up on top and stays there? Low porosity.
Soaks in immediately? High porosity.
Sits for a while before absorbing? Medium porosity.
Now That You Know Your Porosity… Here’s How to Care for It!
Low Porosity Hair – Moisture-Resistant & Prone to Build-Up
Low porosity hair has a tightly sealed cuticle, meaning it’s hard for moisture to enter. But once moisture gets in, it stays in! This hair type can also be prone to product build-up because it doesn’t easily absorb heavy formulas.
💡 Tips for Low Porosity Hair:
✔ Use lightweight, less-oily products like Pretty Curly Girl
✔ Avoid heavy creams and butters that may sit on top of your strands.
✔ Use a lightweight shampoo like Pretty Curly Girl Peppermint Clean Shampoo to remove buildup.
✔ Apply deep conditioners with a heat cap to open up the cuticle and allow penetration.
Medium Porosity Hair – A Simple Balance!
If your hair is medium porosity, you’ve got it easy! Your cuticles are slightly open, allowing a steady flow of moisture in and out. This hair type typically styles well, holds moisture, and is easy to manage.
💡 Tips for Medium Porosity Hair:
✔ Use balanced products that provide both moisture and protein, like Kurlee Belle Honey Ginger Protein Deep Treatment.
✔ Keep your routine consistent to maintain hydration.
✔ Use a lightweight leave-in like Breahni Leave-In Conditioner to keep curls bouncy and defined.
High Porosity Hair – Prone to Frizz & Dryness
High porosity hair has gaps in the cuticle, allowing moisture to enter and escape quickly. This can lead to frizz, dryness, and breakage if not properly cared for.
💡 Tips for High Porosity Hair:
✔ Use strong hold gels like Inahsi Naturals Pamper My Curls Sculpting Glaze (Strong Hold Gel) to seal the cuticle.
✔ Apply a leave-in moisturiser like Bounce Curl Avocado & Rose Oil Clump and Define Cream for long-lasting hydration.
✔ Opt for a protein-rich deep treatment like Curly Girl Movement Curl Comeback Repair Mask to strengthen your hair.
✔ Rinse hair with cool water to help close the cuticle and lock in moisture.
Final Thoughts – Every Curl is Unique!
No matter what your hair porosity is, there is no “bad” hair type! The key is understanding your hair and giving it the care it needs. Once you figure out how your hair retains moisture, you can create a hair routine that works for you and rock your curls with confidence! 💕
Need help choosing the right products? Curly Life has everything you need for perfectly hydrated curls, plus fast shipping, free gifts, and expert curl consultations! ✨ Get in touch with our curl experts for 100% free curl advice.
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