When we talk about hair health, most people think of hair type—straight, wavy, curly, or coily. But there’s another factor that matters just as much, and often even more: hair porosity. Your hair’s porosity decides how well it can absorb moisture, retain hydration, and respond to products. If you’ve ever wondered why the same conditioner works wonders for someone else but makes your hair limp or frizzy, porosity is the hidden reason.
Let’s dive into what hair porosity really means, how to test it, the different porosity types, and what routine to follow afterwards.
What is Hair Porosity?
Hair porosity refers to your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. It depends on how tight or loose the cuticles (the outer protective layer) are. Cuticles that lay flat make it difficult for moisture to enter, while raised or damaged cuticles allow moisture in but don’t hold it for long.
Porosity is usually divided into three categories:
- Low porosity
- Medium (normal) porosity
- High porosity
Each category behaves differently and needs a different care approach.
Types of Hair Porosity
1. Low Porosity Hair
Low porosity hair has tightly packed cuticles. This makes it difficult for moisture and products to penetrate.
Common signs:
- Water sits on top of the hair instead of soaking in.
- Products feel like they “sit” on hair.
- Hair takes long to get fully wet and long to dry.
- Build-up happens quickly.
- Looks shiny but can feel dry inside.
What it needs: lightweight products, gentle heat during conditioning, and no heavy oils.
2. Medium (Normal) Porosity Hair
Medium porosity hair has cuticles that are neither too tight nor too open.
Common signs:
- Hair absorbs water easily and dries at a normal pace.
- Holds styles well.
- Needs less maintenance.
- Looks healthy with minimal effort.
What it needs: balanced moisture and protein to retain its natural resilience.
3. High Porosity Hair
High porosity hair has raised or damaged cuticles, usually due to chemical treatments, heat styling, colouring, or genetics.
Common signs:
- Hair absorbs water quickly but also loses it fast.
- Frizz is common.
- Breakage and dryness.
- Needs lots of moisture.
- Gets tangled easily.
What it needs: thicker moisturizers, oils to seal hydration, and protein to strengthen cuticles.
How to Test Your Hair Porosity at Home
Here are three simple methods to know your porosity.
1. The Float Test (Most Popular)
- Take a clean strand of dry hair.
- Place it in a glass of room-temperature water.
- Observe after 2–4 minutes.
Results:
- Floats on top: low porosity
- Stays in the middle: medium porosity
- Sinks quickly: high porosity
Tip: Make sure your hair is product-free for accurate results.
2. The Spray/Water Test
- Take a small section of clean hair.
- Spray water on it.
If water beads up → low porosity
If water absorbs slowly but evenly → medium porosity
If water soaks in instantly → high porosity
3. The Slip Test (Product Absorption Test)
While applying conditioner:
- If it takes time to work and sits on hair → low porosity
- If it glides on easily → medium porosity
- If hair soaks it up immediately → high porosity
Hair Care Guidance Based on Porosity
Understanding your porosity helps you choose the right products, routine, and techniques.
Low Porosity Hair Care
Low porosity hair needs help in opening cuticles so moisture can enter.
Do:
- Use lightweight moisturizers and leave-ins.
- Choose water-based products with humectants (aloe, glycerin, honey).
- Deep condition with mild heat (warm towel/steamer).
- Clarify regularly to remove buildup.
Avoid:
- Heavy oils like castor or coconut oil.
- Too many protein-rich products.
- Layering too many creams.
Medium Porosity Hair Care
This hair type is usually easiest to maintain.
Do:
- Use a balanced routine of moisture + protein.
- Choose conditioners with slip.
- Apply oils like argan or almond for shine.
Avoid:
- Excessive heat styling.
- Overusing proteins, which can make hair stiff.
High Porosity Hair Care
High porosity hair needs lots of hydration and repair.
Do:
- Use thicker creams and butters to lock in moisture.
- Apply oils to seal hydration (shea butter, castor oil, olive oil).
- Deep condition weekly.
- Use protein treatments periodically.
Avoid:
- Harsh shampoos.
- Frequent heat styling.
- Skipping leave-in conditioners.
Final Thoughts
Hair porosity is the most underrated element of hair care. Once you understand whether your hair holds moisture or loses it quickly, you can tailor your routine, choose better products, and see immediate improvements. Whether you have low, medium, or high porosity hair—knowing your porosity is the first step to healthier, shinier, easier-to-manage hair.
