What is the primary factor that affects processing time during chemical services?

The primary factor affecting processing time during chemical services is hair porosity. Porosity refers to the hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture and chemical products. Hair with high porosity tends to open up more readily, allowing chemicals to penetrate and interact with the hair more quickly, which can lead to faster processing times. This is often seen in hair that has been previously treated with chemicals or that has been damaged.

In contrast, hair with low porosity has a tightly sealed cuticle layer, which makes it more difficult for chemical solutions to penetrate. As a result, hair with low porosity typically requires more time to process because the chemicals are absorbed more slowly.

While hair density, texture, and length can influence various aspects of chemical services, including the amount of product used and how results may appear, it's the porosity level that critically determines how rapidly the hair will respond to chemical treatments. This understanding is essential for barbers and stylists to achieve optimal outcomes during services like coloring or perming.