Alaska Hairdresser and Barber Certification Practice Exam

What does 'porosity' in hair refer to?

1. The hair's ability to change color

2. The hair's strength

3. The hair's ability to absorb moisture

4. The hair's curl pattern

The correct answer is: The hair's ability to absorb moisture

Porosity in hair is defined as the hair's ability to absorb moisture. This characteristic is crucial for understanding how hair interacts with various products, including conditioners, moisturizers, and treatments. Hair porosity can be categorized into low, medium, and high levels, which indicate how well hair can retain moisture. Low porosity hair has a tighter cuticle layer, making it more difficult for moisture to penetrate, often leading to product buildup. Medium porosity hair typically absorbs and retains moisture well, while high porosity hair, with a more raised cuticle, allows moisture to enter easily but may struggle to hold onto it. Understanding porosity is essential for hair care, as it guides professionals in recommending the appropriate products and techniques tailored to an individual's hair type, ultimately promoting healthier hair.