The products that work for your best friend might not work for you, even if your hair looks similar. Understanding your hair's unique characteristics is the first step to a routine that actually works.
What Actually Matters
Curl pattern (3A, 4C, etc.) tells you about shape, but not about porosity (moisture absorption), density (how many strands), width (strand thickness), or elasticity (stretch and return). Understanding these characteristics gives you a much more complete picture.
Porosity: The Key to Moisture
Low.
Cuticle tightly closed. Products sit on top. Use lightweight products, heat to open cuticle, clarify regularly.
High.
Cuticle raised or damaged. Moisture enters and escapes quickly. Use heavier butters/oils, protein treatments, LOC method.
Normal.
Balanced absorption. Hair is generally easy to manage and responds well to most products.
Test Your Porosity
Place a clean strand of hair in a glass of water. If it floats, you're low porosity. If it sinks immediately, you're high porosity. If it floats then slowly sinks, you're normal. Your hair's needs can change with seasons, heat usage, and health — pay attention and adjust.
