Instagram content
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.
“The main characteristics are on how many turns and loops there are on a strand. This would range from anything from fine to thick. It’s important to note that hair typing doesn’t consider density and volume per strand. It solely looks at a strand loops and turns.” says Enitan. Hair types also can indicate hair porosity levels.
What is hair porosity?
Hair porosity refers to the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. It is determined by the hair’s cuticle layer, which is the outermost layer of the hair shaft. The cuticle layer is made up of overlapping scales that can either lie flat, be slightly raised, or be lifted up. The more lifted the cuticles are, the more porous the hair is, which means it can absorb and lose moisture more easily.
Enitan adds: “The term Poro means tiny hole/space. Therefore, porosity means how many tiny holes there are in a cuticle. The more holes/cracks the more damaged it is. In layman’s terms, porosity is the measurement of how damaged a strand is.”
What proximity does hair porosity have with each hair type?
Hair porosity is the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture. It is not directly related to hair type, but the degree of porosity can vary depending on the type.
There are three basic hair types: straight, wavy, and curly. Straight hair tends to be less porous, meaning it has a harder time absorbing and retaining moisture. Wavy hair is typically of medium porosity, and curly hair is usually more porous, meaning it can absorb and lose moisture quickly.
“The level of damage would determine how the hair will respond to ingredients more than hair type. The shape and number of loops on a strand will determine how quickly and prone to dryness and damage the strand is. The more coily or curly a strand the more damage the strand is likely to have.”
For more from Glamour UK Beauty Writer Shei Mamona, follow her on Instagram @sheimamona