New Hampshire Cosmetology Practice Exam

Porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb moisture, which is a critical characteristic affecting how hair responds to various treatments, styling products, and environmental factors. When hair has high porosity, it means the cuticle layer is raised or damaged, allowing it to soak up moisture quickly but also making it susceptible to losing moisture and becoming dry easily. On the other hand, low porosity hair has a tighter cuticle that does not allow moisture to penetrate easily, often requiring more effort to hydrate.

Understanding porosity is essential for hairstylists and cosmetologists, as it influences the choice of hair care products and techniques. For example, high porosity hair might benefit from heavier moisturizing products to help retain moisture, while low porosity hair may require lighter, more easily absorbed products. This knowledge helps professionals customize their services to meet the specific needs of their clients' hair types.