Vermont Barbers and Cosmetologists Practice Exam 2025 - Free Barber and Cosmetologist Practice Questions and Study Guide

Determining the porosity of hair is essential in understanding how well it can absorb and retain moisture and products. The water test is a practical method used for this evaluation. In this test, a strand of clean hair is placed in a bowl of water. If the hair sinks quickly, it indicates high porosity, meaning the hair has gaps and holes that allow moisture to enter easily. If the hair floats for a longer time, it indicates low porosity, suggesting that the cuticles are tightly packed and less permeable.

Conducting the water test gives a clear visual assessment of porosity, which is useful for making informed decisions about hair care routines, such as which products to use for moisture retention or hydration. Other methods listed, like performing a heat test or examining shine, don't provide the same direct insight into porosity. While a porosity analyzer sounds useful, the water test remains a widely accepted and straightforward approach within the industry.