There's a myth that there are only two types of curls: super dry and porous, or healthy and shiny. But that forgets one important group – those with medium-porosity curls. And that's precisely the group that has the perfect balance that the rest of the curly hair world envies.
However, medium-porosity hair can also become unbalanced. And then the confusion begins: "Am I high, low, or medium?"
Let's break it down step by step.
What does 'medium porous' actually mean?
Porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture .
- Low-porosity hair is like a closed door: difficult to penetrate, but what's inside stays put.
- Highly porous hair is like an open window in a storm: everything comes in — but flies out just as quickly.
- And medium porous hair ? That's that friendly go-between who says, "Come on in, but I'll keep an eye on things."
The hair scales are slightly open, which allows moisture to be absorbed well, but also held relatively well.
How do you know if you have medium porosity hair?
There are a few signs that betray the fact that you fall into this category:
- On average, your hair dries quickly after washing — not in 5 minutes, but also not after 2 hours.
- Your products absorb fairly well, without ' floating ' on top of your hair.
- Your curls usually have a nice shine, but can become duller with heat or product build-up.
- Sometimes you have perfect curl days ... and sometimes you don't. (Medium porosity hair is a bit fickle.)
Want to test it? Do a slip test : take one hair from your brush and slide two fingers along it.
- Smooth = low porosity
- Rough = highly porous
- Slightly rough with a little texture = medium porous
It's that simple. And no, Facebook groups don't get to decide what you are. Listen to your hair.
What does medium porosity hair need?
Balance.
Your hair loves a balance between moisture and protein . Too much of one and your curls will become either limp or stiff.
Therefore, it's smart to choose products that combine both elements or that you can customize yourself.
And that's where our Amazing Curls products come in handy.
Your ideal routine for medium porosity hair
1. Cleansing – keep the balance pure
Use a mild, yet effective shampoo that removes build-up without stripping.
Smart Clean Shampoo – removes product buildup and hard water residue without stripping your natural oils. Perfect for keeping your curls bouncy and voluminous.
Tip: Wash 1 to 2 times a week. Washing too often = dry hair. Washing too little = build-up.
Hydration & nutrition – the key to resilience
All-in-One Treatment – your multitasker for conditioner, mask and leave-in.
Use it as:
- Conditioner with every wash.
- Mask once a week
- Use the leave-in conditioner on extra dry days (but not at the same time as the Styling Cream).
Medium porosity hair loves ingredients like jojoba and avocado oil – all of which you'll find in this treatment.
Styling – define without adding weight
All-in-One Styling Cream – contains a perfect mix of nourishing oils and lightweight polymers.
Provides definition without making your hair greasy. Use a small amount and distribute well through wet hair.
Styling Gel – for extra hold. Your curls stay in style longer without a crunchy feeling.
Scrunch it in, let it dry, and then break the cast (with a drop of oil, see below).
4. Seal & protect – prevent moisture loss
Super Sealing Oil – the finishing touch.
Apply a few drops to wet hair before or after the gel (depending on your porosity).
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Medium porosity hair usually does well with oiling between cream and gel .
This way you lock in moisture, get shine, and keep your curl pattern tight.
Want to know more about whether this Super Sealing is suitable for your curls? Read more here.
Add protein – only if she asks for it.
Do you notice that your curls are becoming lifeless or limp, or that they are falling out faster?
Then add a few Protein Drops to your Treatment or Styling Cream.
This way, you can determine for yourself how much strength your hair needs, without overstraining it.
Think of it like vitamins: an occasional boost works wonders, but you don't need it every day.
Styling techniques that work for medium porosity hair
- Praying hands – to distribute products evenly.
- Scrunching – for more definition and bounce.
- Squeezing – to remove excess water without frizz.
- Diffuse at low heat – because too much heat unnecessarily opens the hair cuticles.
And remember: it's trial and error . What works for your curly-haired friend might turn out completely differently for you. Curls are like people — no two are alike.
Want to know more about styling techniques? Read it here.
And what's best to avoid?
Using overly heavy butters and oils in every step of your routine will quickly make your hair dull.
Product overload – medium porosity hair needs air.
A protein treatment every week – too much strength actually makes it brittle.
In conclusion
Medium porosity hair is like a friend who's usually chill but occasionally needs some attention. Give it love, listen carefully to its signals, and it will reward you with bouncy, shiny curls that look great every day.