Understanding Hair Porosity
How It Affects Moisture Absorption and Retention
Hair porosity is crucial in determining how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. It depends on the ability of the hair cuticle to allow moisture to pass through. To better understand hair porosity, it’s essential to explore the role of the cortex and cuticle in hair health.
The Role of the Cortex in Hair Health
The cortex is the middle layer of the hair shaft and the main structural component. It’s responsible for hair’s strength, elasticity, and natural color (melanin). The cortex contains long keratin filaments bound by disulfide and hydrogen bonds. These bonds are essential for hair health, but chemical treatments can weaken them, affecting hair condition.
For the cortex to maintain its health, it requires a protective cuticle layer. This leads us to the next essential part of hair structure: the cuticle.
The Role of the Cuticle in Hair Health
The cuticle is the outer layer of the hair shaft, appearing as overlapping shingles. Its primary function is to open and close based on the pH of applied products. For example, a high pH product like bleach raises the cuticle, allowing it to penetrate the cortex and strip melanin. Damage to the cuticle exposes the cortex to further harm.
A healthy cuticle safeguards the cortex, helping retain hair’s moisture and strength.
If you want to understand more about the pH of your scalp and hair in correlation to the hair care products you use. Check out our blog on why Halo is a pH cohesive brand blog.
Understanding Hair Porosity Types
Now that we’ve explored the hair structure, let’s dive into how hair porosity influences your hair care routine.
Low Porosity Hair
Low porosity hair has a tightly closed cuticle, making it difficult for moisture to penetrate. Water tends to bead up on this type of hair rather than absorb. Due to the tightly overlapping cuticles, low porosity hair is prone to product buildup, which can further limit moisture absorption.
Low Porosity Hair Care Routine with Halo:
- Cleanse Regularly: Regular cleansing with Kinks, Curls, and Coils Shampoo helps remove buildup.
- Condition with Heat: Apply conditioner (such as Kinks, Curls, and Coils Conditioner or Strengthen and Shine) using a steam or heated cap to open the cuticle.
- Lightweight Styling: Tangled Toner has a low molecular weight making it an ideal treatment for low porosity hair as it can easily penetrate the cuticle. Finish with an Nourished By Oil for shine and nourishment.
Tip: Avoid heavy butters, as they can lead to further buildup. Oils are generally better for low porosity hair.
Medium Porosity Hair
Medium porosity hair has a cuticle that allows moisture to enter and exit easily. This type is generally low-maintenance but still benefits from proper care to avoid damage.
Medium Porosity Hair Care Routine with Halo:
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo: All Halo shampoos are sulfate-free, preserving the hair’s natural moisture.
- Deep Condition Regularly: Keep your hair strong and hydrated with weekly treatments.
- Layer with the LOC Method: Use Hydrated Pre-Treat to protect against environmental damage, followed by Heat Halo - Smoothing Serum and to lock in moisture and protect from damage.
Tip: Medium porosity hair responds well to layering products, which helps retain moisture and prevent damage.
High Porosity Hair
High porosity hair has gaps and holes in the cuticle, which means moisture can easily enter but also escapes quickly. This type is prone to tangling, fading color, and breakage.
High Porosity Hair Care Routine with Halo:
- Pre-Treat and Seal: Use Nourished By Hair Oil or Hydrated Pre-Treat to prevent moisture loss.
- Cool Rinse: Always rinse hair in cool water to help close the cuticle.
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Condition Based on Hair Type:
- For damaged hair, use Strengthen and Shine Conditioner.
- For dry, frizzy hair, choose Hydrated Halo Conditioner.
- For fine, knotty hair, opt for Kinks, Curls, and Coils Conditioner.
- Use Heat Protection: Heat Halo - Smoothing and Shine Serum provides extra protection against environmental damage.
Tip: High porosity hair often benefits from regular protein treatments to strengthen the cortex.
How to Determine Your Hair Porosity
Not sure about your hair’s porosity? Try the simple water test:
- Fill a glass with water.
- Place a strand of clean, dry hair in the glass.
- If it floats, you likely have low porosity hair.
- If it sinks slowly and stays in the middle, you have medium porosity hair.
- If it sinks quickly, your hair is high porosity.
Understanding your hair porosity can help you choose the right products and care techniques to maintain healthy, resilient hair. By following the proper routine for your hair type, you can keep your locks looking their best. If you are unsure on the best routine, feel free to reach out for a curated routine or check out our curated bundles designed for your hair and scalp health or concern.
