How do you assess hair porosity?

Assessing hair porosity is essential in determining how well hair can absorb and retain moisture. Conducting a water test with a strand of hair is an effective method for this assessment. The test involves placing a strand of hair in a bowl of water and observing how quickly it sinks or floats.

If the hair strand quickly sinks, it indicates high porosity, meaning the hair cuticle is damaged or raised, allowing water to easily enter. Conversely, if the hair floats for a prolonged period, it suggests low porosity, indicating the cuticle is tight and less penetrable by moisture. This test gives clear insights into the hair's porosity level, helping cosmetologists select appropriate products and treatments tailored to the client's needs.

While measuring hair's thickness can provide information about its health and density, it does not offer direct insights into porosity. The pull test assesses the elasticity of hair but does not specifically measure porosity. Examining hair under a microscope may reveal condition and structure but is not a practical or straightforward method for assessing porosity in a salon setting. Thus, the water test most effectively determines the porosity level by directly interacting with how the hair reacts with moisture.