The first step to creating a hair regimen specifically for your head of hair. Get to know your hair. There are a few things to consider. Such as porosity, texture, elasticity and the overall condition of your hair. The overview I will be providing is going to be an aid. Therefore, helping with determining which products to use. Most of information provided will be a building block. While leading up to other tips to care for your hair. And whatever style you choose.
So, let’s start with what porosity is. It’s the ability of your hair to absorb and retain moisture. And it’s directly related to the condition of the hair cuticle. Hydrophobic hair with a compact cuticle layer and naturally resistant to moisture penetration is considered healthy. Therefore, requires more alkaline solutions. However, hydrophilic hair is porous with a raised cuticle layer that easily absorbs moisture.
Moreover, low porosity hair is healthy hair that hair not been moisturized correctly. So, the cuticle layer is intact but not getting moisturized properly causing it to become dry and tangled. >>Moisturizing tip: pre-poo with warm avocado oil. In addition to a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Chosen based on the condition of your hair and scalp. Overly porous hair could be damaged, dry, fragile, or brittle. And requires less alkaline solutions with a lower PH. Coarse hair is normally low porosity and resistant.
There are two ways of testing the porosity of your hair. The dry method and the wet one. I will be explaining the water method. Therefore, allowing you to get a better visual as to how quickly your hair absorbs moisture.
Testing Porosity
Supplies Needed >>
- Four clear glass cups/jars
- Hairs from the front hairline, temple, crown and the nape
- Room temperature water
Steps>>
- Place several hairs from each area in assigned labeled container
- Observe hair in the water for 30 minutes
Results>>
- Low>>>Hair floats up top
- Average>>>Hair lingers in the middle
- High>>The hair immediately sinks
Finally, after figuring out your porosity apply the information you learned when choosing styling products. Lean towards the products that contain ingredients formulated for your porosity type.
