There is a quick test that might help you determine whether your curly hair type is dry or experiencing another problem. The porosity of your hair, which influences how it absorbs moisture, is the key to the solution. Certain curl types frequently have high porosity hair, which requires more moisture than low porosity hair. To determine your hair's requirements and receive the proper care for your particular curls.

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The Hair Porosity Float Test

A straightforward water test will determine the porosity of your hair without the need for specialized equipment. To get rid of any product buildup, start by shampooing and rinsing your hair. After washing and drying your hair, remove a strand and place it in a bowl of water.

After two to four minutes of sitting, watch where the strand lands:

• Hair with little porosity will float to the top.
• Hair with a medium porosity will float in the center.
• Hair with a lot of porosity will sink to the bottom.

You can choose the best products and treatments to maintain the health and hydration of your curls by using this easy test to determine the porosity of your hair.

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1. Minimal porosity

The cuticle layer of low porosity hair is securely bonded, and the scales are flat. It is more difficult to moisten this kind of hair because it prefers to repel moisture. Additionally, it is more likely to accumulate product, which makes it feel dry and stiff. Lighter, liquid-based solutions, such as hair milks, are better for low porosity hair because they won't stick to the surface and make it oily.

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2. Porosity in the middle

Medium porosity hair has a looser cuticle layer that lets moisture in without letting too much out. Although hair with a medium porosity tends to retain colors and styles well, excessive coloring or perming can cause the porosity to grow over time, so proceed with caution. Periodically deep conditioning with protein conditioners is a fantastic way to keep hydrated. To improve moisture retention, you can also try hair products made with rice water.

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3. Elevated porosity

Due to cuticle gaps that let too much moisture in, high porosity hair tends to lose moisture rapidly and get frizzy. Layering products such as oils, sealers, butters, and leave-in conditioners can help fill in the gaps and keep moisture in the skin while restoring hydration. Seek for shampoos or treatments that are intended to help restore moisture if you have natural hair.

It's crucial to remember that different hair types can have varied curls, particularly for POC, black, and bi-racial hair, which can have a variety of textures. Since the water test is universal, it's a fantastic place to start when figuring out your hair's porosity and needs, but you'll still need to discover the correct products for your particular hair type.

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