.png)
For most, porosity is genetic, but it can also be affected by external factors such as environmental exposure, heat treatments and chemical processing
Porosity refers to how well your locs are able to absorb and hold moisture. It is affected by the flexible outer layer called the cuticle, which determines how easily moisture and oils pass in and out of your locs. Be aware that regular processing like coloring or constant usage of a drier can change the hair's porosity over time.
Hair porosity is typically divided into 3 broad categories:
Low porosity: Cuticles that are close together.
Low porosity hair is more prone to product buildup, is resistant to moisture, and is protein-sensitive. By adding unwanted protein to the hair the strand becomes stiff and brittle, causing it to break. Thick oils are too heavy for low porosity hair, especially for those with fine strands. Thick products accumulate quickly, causing product buildup up that leads to dryness, especially with multiple applications between washes.Use a lightweight water-based liquid leave-in like the TLC4Locs Locsturizers and seal your hair with a light natural oil like the TLC4Locs Nutri-Lux oil
Medium porosity: Cuticles that are less tightly bound.
This is where you want to be. Locs feel smooth and have no issues with products absorbing into the hair. The cuticle opens and closes easily to allow enough hydration into your locs and hold onto that moisture. This type requires the least maintenance and not as many treatments but can still change if you end up overprocessing it with color or heat.
High porosity: Cuticles that are more widely spaced.
High porosity hair tends to be damaged either from chemical processing, excessive use of heat, environmental changes or surroundings ( what type of work you do plays a factor). The hair strands itself have gaps or holes in the cuticle which holds very little moisture and causes frizz. This requires protein to fill the holes in the hair strands, to build up the integrity to make it strong. Doing ACV (apple cider vinegar) rinses are good for closing the cuticle and retaining moisture.
HOMEWORK / The Float Test:
Gently take a couple of strands from different areas of new growth and drop them into water. Let them sit for 2-4 minutes. If your hair floats, you have low porosity. If it sinks, you have high porosity. If it looks to be somewhere in the middle it's medium.
Try it out for yourself and see where you fall on the porosity scale! In PART 2 we will learn the LESSON on how to correct and treat your crown based on what porosity type you have,
Love, Peace & Locs
Elli Marie
Comments