How to Check your hair porosity

Hey everyone! I used to struggle so much with my hair, wondering why some products just didn't seem to work for me. It wasn't until I learned about hair porosity that everything clicked! Knowing your hair porosity is seriously a game-changer because it helps you understand how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture – which is key to picking the right products and keeping your hair healthy. I tried a couple of simple tests right at home to figure out my porosity, and I wanted to share them with you! The Water Float Test (My Go-To!) This is probably the most popular and easiest one, and it's super accurate. You'll need a glass of water and a clean, shed hair strand. Get a Clean Strand: First, make sure your hair is clean and free of product buildup. Gently pull out a single hair strand (or collect one after brushing). The Float: Carefully drop the hair strand into a glass of water. Don't stir or push it down! Observe: Let it sit for about 2-4 minutes. What happens next tells you everything! Low Porosity: If your hair strand is still floating on top of the water after a few minutes, you likely have low porosity hair. This means your hair cuticles are tightly closed, making it harder for moisture to get in (and out!). Products tend to sit on top of your strands. Medium Porosity: If your hair strand slowly sinks or stays suspended somewhere in the middle of the glass, you're probably blessed with medium porosity hair. Your cuticles are balanced, allowing moisture to absorb and retain well. High Porosity: If your hair strand quickly sinks to the bottom of the glass of water, you have high porosity hair. Your cuticles are likely raised or have gaps, meaning your hair absorbs moisture really fast but also loses it just as quickly. This type can be prone to frizz and damage. The Slip & Slide Test (A Quick Check!) This one is great for a quick, tactile check if you're curious. Isolate a Strand: Take a single hair strand between your thumb and forefinger. Slide Up: Gently slide your fingers up the strand, from tip to root. Feel for Texture: If it feels smooth, you probably have low porosity hair. If you feel small bumps or it feels rough, you likely have high porosity hair. This is because you're feeling the raised cuticles! Understanding these results completely changed my haircare routine. For example, when I found out I had high porosity, I started focusing on sealing in moisture with heavier creams and oils, and incorporating protein treatments. If you have low porosity, you might want to use lightweight products and try steaming your hair to help open those cuticles. For medium porosity, you're in a good spot, just focus on maintaining that balance! Seriously, give these tests a try. Knowing your hair's unique needs is the first step to truly healthier, happier hair. I promise, it's worth it!