Understanding Your Hair’s Porosity

Every crown is different. Some strands sip water like tea on a Sunday morning. Others hold on tight like grandma’s hugs. That difference? It's called porosity — and it’s the secret to unlocking moisture that actually lasts.

Let’s break it all the way down:

  •  What porosity is
  • How to figure out yours, and
  • How to use our Miracle Leave-In based on what your strands are really asking for

What Is Hair Porosity?

Porosity is your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. It all comes down to the shape and openness of your hair’s cuticle layer (the outermost layer of your hair strand).

There are three main types of porosity:

Low Porosity

  • Cuticles are tightly sealed.
  • Moisture has a hard time getting in.
  • Product tends to sit on top of the hair.

Medium (Normal) Porosity

  • Cuticles open and close with balance.
  • Moisture is easily absorbed and retained.
  • Hair holds styles and hydration well.

High Porosity

  • Cuticles are raised or damaged.
  • Moisture enters fast but escapes just as quickly.
  • Prone to dryness, frizz, and breakage if not sealed properly.

How to Find Out Your Hair Porosity

The Water Test

  1. Take a few clean, shed hairs (no product on them).
  2. Drop them into a glass of room-temperature water.
  3. Wait 2–5 minutes.
  • If it floats: You likely have low porosity.
  • If it sinks slowly and stays suspended: That’s medium porosity.
  • If it sinks quickly to the bottom: You’ve got high porosity strands.

Bonus Clues:

  • Low porosity hair repels water and takes a while to dry.
  • High porosity hair dries fast and frizzes easily.
  • Medium porosity tends to feel “just right” with most products.


How to Use the Miracle Leave-In Based on Your Porosity

Low Porosity Hair

  • Start with clean, clarified hair — this helps remove buildup that can block moisture.
  • Apply the Miracle Leave-In on damp (not soaking wet) hair for best absorption.
  • Use steam, a warm towel, or a hooded dryer to help open the cuticle and draw the nutrients in.
  • A little goes a long way — avoid heavy layering.

📝 Your goal: Encourage absorption. Think light layers, warmth, and patience.

Medium Porosity Hair

  • Apply Miracle Leave-In on damp or wet hair after washing or co-washing.
  • Distribute evenly through sections with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
  • Pair with your favorite oil or gel depending on your style.

📝 Your goal: Maintain balance. You’re the porosity sweet spot — keep doing you.

High Porosity Hair

  • Apply Miracle Leave-In on wet hair, right after washing and before styling.
  • Follow up with a sealing oil or cream to lock in the moisture.
  • Reapply mid-week if needed to refresh softness and shine.

📝 Your goal: Lock it in. Your hair loves moisture, but it needs help holding onto it.

Why the Miracle Leave-In Works for All Porosity Levels

No matter your porosity, our Miracle Leave-In was handcrafted to meet textured hair where it is. Infused with fenugreek water, rice water, avocado oil, aloe, and glycerin, it:

✅ Instantly softens
✅ Hydrates up to 7 full days
✅ Smooths and defines without buildup
✅ Plays well with gels and stylers
✅ Makes wash day feel like self-care (because it is)

Final Thoughts

Porosity isn’t about what’s “wrong” with your hair, it’s about understanding what your strands need to thrive. With the right routine and the right product, your hair can look and feel its best every single day.

Still not sure what porosity you have? DM us on Instagram @nancyskitchenproducts or email us (hello@nancyskitchenproducts.com)— and NKP Care Team is here to help.

✨ Ready to treat your hair the way it deserves?

Shop the Miracle Leave-In and start your moisture journey today.

Back to blog