Understanding Hair Porosity & The Right Oil for You

Ever wonder why your hair drinks up oil one day and repels it the next? The answer could lie in a little-known but powerful factor: hair porosity. Understanding your hair’s porosity can completely change the way you care for it - and lead to healthier, shinier strands.

Hair porosity is your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture, and it all comes down to the health of your cuticle—the outermost layer of each strand.

What’s a cuticle?
Think of the cuticle like roof shingles or tiles layered over each hair strand. These tiny overlapping cells act as a gatekeeper, deciding how much moisture and nutrients your hair can hold onto. When they’re tightly packed, moisture has trouble getting in (low porosity). If they’re slightly open, your hair retains moisture well (medium porosity). If they’re too open or damaged, moisture escapes too quickly (high porosity).

Do the simple water test:
Drop a clean strand of hair into a glass of water.

· Floats for a long time = Low porosity 

· Sinks slowly = Medium porosity 

· Sinks quickly = High porosity
 

For Low Porosity Hair:
You’ll benefit from lightweight oils that don’t just sit on the surface. Look for blends like:

  

· Jasmine & Amla 

· Lavender & Argan 

· Rose & Bhringraj
 

These help gently nourish without buildup. Pro tip: apply with a warm towel to open up the cuticle.

For Medium & High Porosity Hair:
Use richer oils that restore, seal, and protect your strands:

  

· Amla & Mulethi 

· Olive & Almond 

· Coconut & Shikakai 

· Sandalwood & Vetiver
 

These formulas help rebuild the cuticle and lock in moisture.

No matter your porosity, Shaastram Hair Oils are crafted with real herbs and flowers to deliver targeted care. Their fast-absorbing formulas are especially convenient for the modern Indian woman—providing deep nourishment without the need for overnight oiling.

Because your hair deserves care that’s as unique as you are.