What does “porosity” refer to in hair characteristics?

Porosity refers specifically to hair's ability to absorb moisture, which is a crucial characteristic in understanding hair health and treatment. Hair porosity describes how well the hair can take in and retain moisture, based on the condition of its cuticle layer.

When the cuticle layer is intact, the hair tends to be less porous and retains moisture well. Conversely, if the cuticle is damaged or lifted, the hair can become highly porous, leading to greater moisture absorption but also higher moisture loss. This characteristic is essential for choosing the right products and treatment methods for different hair types.

The other characteristics mentioned, such as thickness, color, and shine, do not relate to porosity. Thickness pertains to the diameter of the hair strands, color refers to the pigmentation, and shine is an indicator of hair health and smoothness, but none of these involve the hair's ability to absorb or retain moisture. Understanding porosity helps hairstylists and clients determine the best care and treatment strategies for optimal hair health.