Factors that help determine your hair type

Understanding your hair type is an important first step in finding a hairstyle that suits you. There are several key terms that can help you determine your hair type, including texture, porosity, density, and elasticity.

Hair texture: this refers to the physical characteristics of your hair, such as thickness, coarseness, and wave or curl pattern.
Hair porosity: refers to the ability of your hair to absorb and retain moisture. Low porosity hair has a hard time absorbing moisture, while high porosity hair absorbs moisture easily but has a hard time retaining it.
Hair density: refers to the number of hair strands on your head. High density hair has a lot of hair strands, while low density hair has fewer.
Hair elasticity: refers to the ability of your hair to stretch without breaking. Hair with high elasticity is less prone to breakage, while hair with low elasticity is more prone to breakage.

HAIR TEXTURE

Hair texture is often categorized as fine, medium, or coarse based on the diameter of each individual strand. Fine hair is typically thinner and more delicate, while coarse hair is thicker and more resilient. Medium hair falls in between the two.

It is important to note that hair texture is not only determined by genetics, but also by other factors such as age, lifestyle, and hair treatments. Additionally, hair texture can change over time.

Fine hair tends to be softer, shinier and silkier, but can also appear flatter and be more fragile. It is important to use styling products that add volume to fine hair and avoid heavy, greasy products.

Medium hair is versatile and easy to manage, and is well-suited for different styling and coloring techniques.

Coarse hair can be more difficult to control, but is typically stronger and more resilient. Longer hairstyles can help control volume, while layers can lighten it up. Short cuts that incorporate texture can also be a good option for coarse hair.

HAIR POROSITY

Hair porosity refers to the ability of your hair to absorb and retain moisture. There are three types of hair porosity: low, normal, and high.

Low porosity hair has a hard time absorbing moisture because the cuticles (the outermost layer of the hair) are tightly closed. This type of hair often appears shiny and feels resistant to moisture. Products that are oil-based or heavy can weigh down low porosity hair and make it look greasy.

Normal porosity hair absorbs and retains moisture easily. The cuticles are smooth and in good condition, and the hair has a healthy balance of moisture.

High porosity hair absorbs moisture easily but has a hard time retaining it. The cuticles are raised or damaged, which allows moisture to enter the hair easily but also allows it to escape easily. This type of hair often appears dry, frizzy, and damaged.

Knowing your hair porosity can help you choose the right hair care products, styling methods, and treatments to achieve healthy, manageable hair. It is also important to note that hair porosity can change over time due to different factors such as chemical treatments or heat styling, so it’s best to keep track of your hair’s behavior over time.

HAIR DENSITY

hair density refers to the amount of hair on your head, and is often categorized as thick or thin. The average head of hair is made up of between 100,000 and 150,000 strands. If you have more than 150,000 strands, your hair is considered thick, while less than 90,000 is considered thin.

Thin hair can appear limp and flat, and can be plumped up with volumizing styling products and hair treatments. Avoid using heavy, greasy products that can weigh hair down. A fringe or zigzag parting can also make thin hair appear thicker.

Thick hair can be difficult to manage and control. Structured cuts and regular trims can help minimize bulk and define shape. Avoid cutting your hair too short, as this can make it look even thicker. Layers can also be added to help control volume and define shape.

HAIR ELASTICITY

Hair elasticity refers to the ability of your hair to stretch without breaking. It is an important factor in determining the overall health of your hair. Hair with high elasticity is less prone to breakage and damage, while hair with low elasticity is more prone to breakage and damage.

There are a few ways to test for hair elasticity. The “Stretch Test” is one of the most common methods. To perform the stretch test, take a small section of dry hair and gently stretch it between your fingers. If the hair stretches and returns to its original state, it has high elasticity. If the hair stretches and breaks or doesn’t return to its original state, it has low elasticity.

Other factors that can affect hair elasticity include:

Genetics: Some people may be predisposed to having hair that is more or less elastic than others.

Damage: Exposure to heat, chemicals, and environmental factors can damage the hair and make it less elastic.

Age: As we age, our hair tends to lose elasticity and become more prone to breakage.

Improving hair elasticity can be done by:

Proper hair care: Using gentle hair care products, avoiding heat styling and chemical treatments, and regularly trimming split ends can help improve hair elasticity.

Moisturizing: Keeping hair well-moisturized can help improve its elasticity.

Eating a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help improve the overall health of your hair, including elasticity.

It’s important to note that hair elasticity can change over time, and depends on the condition of the hair. Regularly monitoring hair elasticity is a good way to help you understand how your hair behaves and how to take care of it.

Knowing your hair type can help you choose the right styling products and techniques to achieve the look you want. It’s also important to note that hair can have different characteristics depending on weather, lifestyle and other factors, so it’s best to keep track of your hair’s behavior over time.