Colorado Barbering Practice Exam 2026 - Free Barbering Practice Questions and Study Guide

The porosity of hair refers to its ability to absorb and retain moisture, which is significantly influenced by hair texture and chemical treatments. Hair texture plays a crucial role because different textures—such as straight, wavy, or curly—impact the outer layer of the hair shaft (the cuticle). For example, curly hair typically has a more raised cuticle, which can lead to higher porosity, allowing moisture to enter and exit more easily.

Chemical treatments, such as coloring, perming, or relaxing, alter the structure of the hair, which can compromise the cuticle. These treatments may open up the cuticles more than natural hair would be, resulting in increased porosity. Therefore, hair that has undergone extensive chemical processing often displays higher porosity due to the damage incurred, making it more susceptible to moisture loss and requiring specific care products to maintain hydration levels.

Other factors such as climate, temperature, hair length, color, and product usage do affect hair health and appearance but don't directly influence the inherent property of porosity to the same extent as texture and prior chemical alterations.