Wellness
High Porosity Hair Explained
Understand high porosity hair, why it gets dry and frizzy, and how to manage it with the right care routine and products for healthy, moisturized hair.
What is it?
High porosity hair refers to hair with a raised and open cuticle layer. Think of the hair shaft's surface like a sponge with many gaps. This structure allows moisture and products to be absorbed very easily, but it also means moisture is lost just as quickly. This condition can be genetic, common in curly and coily hair types, or it can be caused by damage from chemical treatments like bleaching, heat styling, and UV exposure. Common characteristics include hair that feels dry and frizzy, tangles easily, absorbs water fast but also air-dries very quickly, and is prone to breakage.
Why is it trending?
The concept of hair porosity is gaining traction as people move towards more personalized hair care. Instead of focusing only on hair type (like straight or curly), understanding porosity helps explain why hair behaves a certain way. The natural hair community, in particular, has popularized porosity tests and routines. This knowledge empowers individuals to choose products and techniques that are more effective for their specific hair needs, leading to healthier hair by addressing the root cause of issues like dryness and frizz rather than just the symptoms.
How does it affect people?
People with high porosity hair often struggle with chronic dryness, frizz, and brittleness. Their hair can feel constantly dehydrated, no matter how much product they use, because it can't retain moisture effectively. This leads to challenges like frequent tangling, breakage, and a dull appearance. To manage it, individuals need to focus on moisture retention. This involves using rich, moisturizing products like leave-in conditioners, creams, and sealing oils to help close the cuticle and lock in hydration. Regular deep conditioning and protein treatments can also help repair and strengthen the hair shaft.