My Natural 4C Hair is Still Dry... Why?

By Alisha Walker

08/12/2021

Do you find that you are moisturizing your hair religiously to no avail? It may not be the products you are using, the issue could instead lie in the porosity level of your hair. The porosity level determines how well your hair is able to absorb and retain moisture within the cortex, and overly porous hair can have a hard time retaining moisture from even the best moisturizing products. Lack of moisture isn't the only drawback to having overly porous hair, hair that is highly porous also absorbs heat faster than hair with low or normal porosity levels which means your hair is more prone to heat damage.

What can cause porosity issues? Improper thermal straightening techniques, excessive heat [from blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons, pressing combs etc], relaxers, and color applications.

How will I know if I have porosity issues? Hair may appear straw-like and dry even after moisturizing. Hair may also have a tendency to air dry faster than normal. Hair may often feel "rough" to the touch. Hair may also be prone to excessive tangles and matting even though your ends are trimmed. Still not sure? Take the porosity test: Rub your fingers up a few strands of hair from end to root, if it feels rough, or bumpy, chances are you have raised or lifted cuticles which can also indicate issues with porosity [porosity issues stem from damaged cuticle layers]. Hair that has low or normal porosity levels should feel smooth up and down the hair shaft.

I am natural, can I use products geared towards correcting porosity? The answer is YES! If you use pressing combs, flat irons, and/or blow dryers you are susceptible to porosity issues. - Also as some of us age, certain hormonal changes take place that may also affect the density, texture and porosity of your hair.