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Hair density and porosity are two curly terms that can be confusing when you’re first starting out. We’ve looked at hair density, so now it’s time to figure out hair porosity. Your unique hair porosity often determines which products you should be using and how to style your curls most effectively. Like hair density, there’s also 3 types of porosity - low, medium, and high.

What is Hair Porosity?

Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture, which depends on how open the cuticles are on your hair strands. While genetics play a role, factors like heat, hair dye, or bleaching can increase your hair's porosity, often leading to damage.

How to Test Your Hair Porosity

A simple method to test hair porosity is to place a clean, product-free strand of hair in a glass of water.

  • If it floats, your hair likely has low porosity.
  • If it sinks slowly or stays in the middle, your hair is usually medium porosity.
  • If it sinks immediately, your hair most likely has high porosity.

Keep in mind that this test only offers a basic indication and isn't a precise measurement.

Low Porosity Hair

Low porosity hair has tightly closed cuticles, making it harder for moisture and products to penetrate. Signs of low porosity hair include water beading on the hair surface and hair that takes a long time to get wet or dry. This hair type can be prone to product build-up so it benefits from lightweight products.

Tips for Low Porosity Hair:

  • Use gentle heat to help products penetrate your hair. For example, apply the Hydrating Creme while in the shower as the steam will help.
  • Wet plopping, where you cover your hair with a shower cap after applying products, can help open cuticles and enhance absorption. See more on wet plopping here.
  • Be careful with products rich in protein as too much protein can make low porosity hair feel dry and brittle.

Recommended Only Curls Products

Lightweight and hydrating: Only Curls products are ideal as they’re designed to be light and natural on the hair, but still add needed moisture. Our Cleanser, Conditioner, Creme, and Enhancing Gel are all great options. You can try these in our Original Bundle.

Be cautious with protein: Our Curl Mousse, Heat Protect Spray, and Deep Hydration Mask are rich in protein, and using lots of protein may not suit low porosity hair. Our Enhancing Gel contains a tiny amount of protein, so it’s usually fine for low porosity curls. Our Mega Hold Gel is free of protein.

Medium Porosity Hair

Medium porosity hair has cuticles that are open halfway, allowing for balanced moisture retention. This type of hair generally absorbs water easily and dries at a moderate rate.

Tips for Medium Porosity Hair

  • Use a mix of moisture and protein products.
  • Adjust your routine based on your hair’s needs: more moisture if it feels dry, and more protein if curls drop easily.

Recommended Only Curls Products

Moisture and Protein Balance: Use our Curl Mousse and Heat Protect Spray when your curls need a protein boost. If your hair is feeling a bit dry, try our Cleansing Co-wash or the Deep Hydration Hair Mask for lush, hydrated curls. For more information on moisture and protein, check out our tutorial here.

High Porosity Hair

High porosity hair has cuticles that are wide open, making it easy for moisture to enter and escape. This hair type can become wet instantly and dries quickly, which can lead to frizz and breakage.

Tips for High Porosity Hair

  • Use products rich in both moisture and protein to strengthen and repair the hair.
  • Rinse with cool water to help close the cuticles.

Recommended Only Curls Products

Rich in moisture and protein: Our Hydrating Creme, Curl Mousse, Mega Hold Gel, Cleansing Co-wash, and Deep Hydration Hair Mask are all great options for those with high porosity hair.

Extra Protein: Our Heat Protect Spray is a customer favourite for when your curls need a protein boost.

Embrace Your Unique Curls

Are you struggling with your curls? It might be time to learn about your hair's porosity and density. Switching up your products and trying new styling techniques can make a significant difference. Every curl is unique, and with some research and experimentation, you can master the best techniques for your unique, beautiful hair. Only Curls is here to help with any questions you have about your individual hair type.

Not sure which Only Curls products are right for you? Try our Starter Bundle first as it contains our 4 core products and best-selling Microfibre Towel for soft, frizz-free curls.

Travelling with curly-haired little ones? Whether you’re off to the beach, exploring a new city, or visiting family, caring for your child’s curls on the move can feel daunting. We have everything you need with ourLittle Curls products.

Keeping your curls looking fresh and frizz-free between wash days can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and products, you can revive your curls effortlessly! Check out our ultimate guide to reviving your curls quickly, easily, and frizz-free — featuring our game-changing Curl Refresh Spray.

Hair shrinkage is something every curly experiences. While shrinkage is a sign of healthy, hydrated hair, it can be frustrating when you want your hair to look longer. However, there are techniques you can try to minimise shrinkage, while keeping your curls looking fabulous. 

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