Know Your Hair Type

1. Hair Texture

• Straight: Lacks curl and tends to be smooth and shiny. Generally has less volume.
• Wavy: Forms a loose “S” shape and has more texture. Can range from fine to coarse.
• Curly: Features defined curls or ringlets. Tends to be drier due to natural oils having a harder time traveling down the strands.
• Coily: Characterized by tight, spiral curls. Often very dense and can be fragile.

2. Hair Density

• Thick: Many strands per square inch; hair feels voluminous.
• Medium: A balanced number of strands; often has a good amount of body.
• Thin: Fewer strands, which can make hair look flat; requires specific products for volume.

3. Porosity

• Low Porosity: Hair cuticles are tightly packed. Water and products take longer to penetrate. Look for lightweight moisturizers.
• Medium Porosity: Hair absorbs moisture easily and retains it well. It’s versatile and can handle a variety of products.
• High Porosity: Hair has gaps and holes in the cuticle. It absorbs moisture quickly but loses it just as fast. Use heavier oils and creams for hydration.

4. Elasticity

• High Elasticity: Hair can stretch and return to its original length without breaking. This indicates healthy hair.
• Medium Elasticity: Can stretch somewhat but may break under excessive tension.
• Low Elasticity: Breaks easily when stretched. This might indicate damage or dryness.

5. Scalp Type

• Oily: Produces excess sebum. Look for clarifying shampoos to balance oil.
• Dry: Lacks moisture and can lead to flakiness. Opt for hydrating shampoos and oils.
• Normal: Balanced and healthy. You can use a variety of products without issue.

How to Determine Your Hair Type

1. Wash and Air Dry: Start with clean, product-free hair. Wash it and let it air dry to see its natural texture.
2. Observe: Once dry, note the pattern (straight, wavy, curly, coily) and check for volume and thickness.
3. Porosity Test: Take a strand of hair and place it in a glass of water. If it sinks quickly, you likely have high porosity. If it floats for a while, you may have low porosity.
4. Elasticity Test: Take a wet strand of hair and gently stretch it. If it returns to its original length, it has good elasticity. If it breaks easily, it may need more care.