What does the term “porosity” refer to in hair properties?

The term "porosity" in hair properties specifically refers to the hair's ability to absorb moisture. This characteristic is crucial for understanding how hair responds to treatments and products, as well as how it behaves under different environmental conditions. Hair with high porosity can absorb moisture quickly but may also lose it just as fast, which can lead to dryness and damage. Conversely, hair with low porosity has a tighter cuticle layer, which makes it harder for moisture to penetrate. Understanding porosity helps cosmetologists recommend appropriate hair care products and treatments tailored to individual hair types.

While other options relate to hair characteristics, they do not define porosity. The strength of hair is related to its structure and health, thickness refers to the diameter of the hair strand, and color intensity pertains to how vivid or muted a hair color appears. Each of these aspects plays a role in overall hair quality but does not specifically address the concept of porosity.