Before you understand porosity, let's delve into the nature of hair. Think of a single strand of hair as having an outer door that protects the inside, much like a house with a roof to safeguard its contents and keep you safe, warm, and protected. The outer door of a home is called a door, but the door to hair is called a cuticle. The goal is to keep the cuticle healthy. The healthier the cuticle, the healthier your porosity will be.
The objective is to maintain cuticle health by using gentle shampoos, conditioners, and oils, and performing maintenance hair trims approximately every three to four months. This timeframe is for individuals looking to maintain length or grow out their tresses. This description pertains to the hair maintenance phase and is not intended for someone in need of hair damage repair. Whether you start with this process to keep your hair healthy or continue it after repairing your hair, this is the key to maintaining healthy hair.
Warnings about factors that can easily disrupt your cuticle include:
- Understanding your hair type and environment, and determining how often your hair and scalp need maintenance.
- Staying hydrated with water, fresh vegetables, exercise, and healthy nutrients.
- Environmental factors such as harsh or dry conditions in your home, workspace, or state, including dry air or harsh cold winters. If your home is dry, consider getting a humidifier to help your scalp and hair retain more moisture.
- Using the right oil for your hair type. Generally, well-trimmed hair is less dry and prone to breakage. Fine hair may require little to no oil, medium dry hair may need oil on an as-needed basis, while dry hair may benefit from a heavier oil for increased density and porosity.
Follow these steps, and your hair will withstand the tides and storms that can cause damage.