The ability of the hair to absorb water or oil is:

The ability of hair to absorb water or oil refers to porosity. Porosity is a critical characteristic of hair that indicates how well it can take in moisture and oils, which directly affects its overall health and manageability. Hair with high porosity typically absorbs moisture quickly but may also lose it just as quickly, leading to dryness. Conversely, hair with low porosity can be resistant to moisture absorption due to tightly packed hair cuticles. Understanding porosity is essential for recommending appropriate hair care products and treatments, as different hair types require different levels of moisture and oil retention.