Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamHair ServicesEasy
A cosmetologist is performing a hair analysis and observes that a client's hair has a tendency to absorb moisture quickly, feels rough to the touch, and appears dull. When a single strand of hair is placed in a glass of water, it sinks quickly. What level of hair porosity does this indicate?
- ALow porosity
- BAverage porosity
- CUneven porosity
- DHigh porosity
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. High porosity
High porosity hair has a raised cuticle layer, allowing it to absorb and lose moisture very quickly. It often feels rough, appears dull, and sinks rapidly in water due to its ability to absorb water easily.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Low porosity hair has a tightly closed cuticle, resisting moisture absorption and often floating in water. It tends to feel smooth.
- B. Average porosity hair has a slightly raised cuticle and absorbs moisture normally, usually remaining suspended in the middle of the water.
- C. Uneven porosity means different sections of the hair have different porosity levels, which isn't the primary descriptor here, as the symptoms point to an overall high porosity.
High Porosity Hair
Hair with a raised or damaged cuticle layer, allowing it to absorb moisture rapidly but also lose it just as quickly. It often feels rough and appears dull.
- Cuticle layer is open or compromised.
- Absorbs products quickly but struggles to retain moisture.
- Often a result of chemical processing, heat styling, or environmental damage.
- Sinks quickly in a water test.
Memory trick: HIGH porosity, HIGH absorption, HIGH speed to sink.