Which term describes the hair's ability to absorb and hold moisture or chemicals?

Which term describes the hair's ability to absorb and hold moisture or chemicals?

• A. Porosity
• B. Elasticity
• C. Density
• D. Texture

Answer: (A)

Porosity is the hair's ability to absorb and hold moisture or chemicals. It hinges on the condition of the cuticle: when the cuticle scales are raised or damaged, porosity is high, so hair soaks up water and chemical treatments quickly but may also lose moisture rapidly and be more prone to damage. When the cuticle lies flatter and tighter, porosity is low, making absorption slower and sometimes requiring more time or heat to let products in. This concept matters in color processing, chemical services, and moisture management, helping you predict how long to leave products on and how to seal in moisture afterward. The other terms refer to different hair properties—elasticity is about stretch and return, density is how much hair there is, and texture is the feel or diameter of the strands.

Porosity is the hair's ability to absorb and hold moisture or chemicals. It hinges on the condition of the cuticle: when the cuticle scales are raised or damaged, porosity is high, so hair soaks up water and chemical treatments quickly but may also lose moisture rapidly and be more prone to damage. When the cuticle lies flatter and tighter, porosity is low, making absorption slower and sometimes requiring more time or heat to let products in. This concept matters in color processing, chemical services, and moisture management, helping you predict how long to leave products on and how to seal in moisture afterward. The other terms refer to different hair properties—elasticity is about stretch and return, density is how much hair there is, and texture is the feel or diameter of the strands.