Ace the Illinois Cosmetology Exam 2025 – Glam Up and Shine Bright!

To determine the porosity of hair, conducting a water test is the most effective method. Porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture, which is crucial for understanding how to treat and style the hair properly.

In a water test, you can gauge porosity by taking a small strand of hair and placing it in a bowl of water. If the hair quickly sinks, it indicates high porosity, meaning the cuticle layers are raised and cannot hold moisture well. If the hair floats for a while, it suggests low porosity, indicating that the cuticles are tightly closed and may resist moisture absorption. This practical test directly assesses the hair's properties and helps inform care and treatment decisions.

Other methods mentioned do not accurately measure porosity. Examining hair texture offers insights into the thickness or hair type but does not provide information on moisture retention. Applying a deep conditioner is part of a hair care routine but does not evaluate porosity. Checking hair color may give a sense of the hair's chemical treatment history but is unrelated to porosity, which focuses specifically on moisture absorption capacity.