What term refers to the hair's ability to absorb moisture, liquids, and chemicals?

The term that refers to the hair's ability to absorb moisture, liquids, and chemicals is porosity. Porosity is a key characteristic of hair that indicates how well it can soak up substances from the environment, including water and hair products. High porosity means the hair has gaps and holes in the cuticle layer, allowing for greater moisture absorption but also making it more susceptible to damage. Low porosity hair, on the other hand, has a tighter cuticle layer, which makes it more difficult for moisture and products to penetrate.

Understanding porosity is essential for hairstylists and individuals caring for their hair, as it affects how hair reacts to treatments such as coloring, perming, and even conditioning. It informs choices in product selection and application methods tailored to the hair's needs.