Your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture—known as porosity—is essential to creating a haircare routine that works for you. Porosity affects everything from how your hair absorbs hydration to how it responds to products, making it a critical factor in overall haircare. Whether you have low porosity hair, high porosity hair, or fall somewhere in between, understanding this characteristic can transform the way you care for your hair.
What is Hair Porosity?
Porosity is determined by the condition of your hair’s cuticle—the outermost layer that acts as a barrier to protect the inner structure. The cuticle's ability to open and close controls how moisture, oils, and products interact with your hair. There are three main types:
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Low Porosity Hair: The cuticles are tightly closed, making it difficult for moisture to enter but also hard for it to leave.
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High Porosity Hair: The cuticles are more open or damaged, allowing moisture to enter easily but escape just as quickly.
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Medium/Normal Porosity Hair: The cuticles are balanced, letting moisture in and keeping it locked for a longer period.
How Do I Know My Hair Porosity?
A way to assess porosity is by observing how your hair responds to moisture and products. Does your hair feel weighed down easily or take a long time to dry? You may have low porosity hair. Does it absorb products quickly but feel dry soon after? High porosity might be the cause.
Signs of Low and High Porosity Hair
Low porosity hair tends to:
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Repel water during washing
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Take longer to dry
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Have product buildup due to difficulty absorbing oils and creams
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Look shiny but feel rough or stiff
High porosity hair tends to:
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Dry quickly after washing
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Feels dry or brittle, despite frequent moisturizing
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Tangles easily
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Prone to frizz and breakage
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Absorbs products quickly, but still feels dry
Is Low or High Porosity Hair Better?
Neither is inherently "better," but each comes with its challenges and unique care requirements. Low porosity hair needs strategies to open the cuticle for moisture to penetrate, while high porosity hair requires products that seal in hydration to prevent moisture loss. Medium porosity is often considered ideal due to its balance, but with the right care, all porosity types can thrive.
What is the Best Porosity for Hair?
The best porosity for hair is the one that works for you! Understanding your hair’s porosity and its specific needs allows you to tailor your routine for optimal hydration, strength, and manageability.
How to Care for Low vs. High Porosity Hair
Low Porosity Hair Products & Tips
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Use lightweight products like Cécred’s Hydrating Conditioner to prevent buildup.
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Incorporate heat during conditioning (like a steamer or shower cap) to help open the cuticle and allow moisture to penetrate.
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Avoid heavy butters and oils that can sit on the hair surface.
High Porosity Hair Products & Tips
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Focus on sealing in moisture with products like Cécred’s Moisture Sealing Lotion or Nourishing Hair Oil.
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Use protein-rich treatments, like the Fermented Rice & Rose Protein Ritual or Reconstructing Treatment Mask, to strengthen and repair the cuticle.
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Deep condition weekly with Cécred’s Moisturizing Deep Conditioner to replenish lost moisture.
Understanding your hair’s porosity is a powerful step toward creating a haircare routine that truly works for you. Whether your hair needs extra hydration, better moisture retention, or a balance of both, Cécred offers a range of products formulated to suit every porosity type. With the right knowledge and products, your hair goals are closer than you think.