Rhode Island Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Questions and Study Guide

When hair is described as "over-porous," it means that the cuticle, the outer protective layer of the hair shaft, has been damaged or opened up excessively. This increased porosity causes the hair to absorb moisture rapidly. While this might sound beneficial at first, rapid absorption can also lead to significant issues, including a higher likelihood of breakage, frizz, and tangling. Over-porous hair has an impaired ability to retain moisture, leading to dryness and fragility.

In contrast, oily hair would indicate that the scalp is producing too much sebum, requiring cleansing, which is different from the concept of porosity. Thick and heavy hair refers to the density of the hair strands rather than how well they absorb moisture. Lastly, while dry hair can indeed appear dull and lacks shine, this description does not necessarily imply porosity. Overall, the key characteristic of over-porous hair is its tendency to absorb moisture too quickly, creating a risk of breakage and damage.