Which type of hair is least likely to retain moisture?

Straight hair is least likely to retain moisture due to its structure. The cuticles of straight hair lay flat, allowing oil and moisture produced by the scalp to travel down the hair shaft easily. However, this same smooth surface means that straight hair can also let moisture escape more readily.

In contrast, wavy, curly, and kinky hair types have a more textured structure that makes it difficult for natural oils to move down the hair shaft. These curls and bends create spaces where moisture can be trapped within the hair, helping to retain it for a longer period. Kinky hair, for instance, has a tighter curl pattern that not only retains moisture better but also reduces the ability for moisture to escape.

Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing appropriate hair care products and routines suited to each hair type's moisture retention properties.