What term describes items that can take on moisture or liquids?

The term that describes items that can take on moisture or liquids is porous. Porous materials have tiny holes or spaces that allow liquids or gases to pass through them. This property is significant in various contexts, such as in hair care and product formulation, where understanding how substances interact with materials is essential for achieving desired outcomes. For example, hair itself is porous, meaning it can absorb moisture from products, affecting hydration and treatment results. Recognizing porous materials helps professionals select appropriate products and techniques for different hair types and conditions.

In contrast, non-porous items do not absorb moisture or liquids, while resilient materials may resist deformation but do not inherently imply the ability to take on moisture. Impermeable refers to materials that completely prevent the passage of liquids or gases, which is the opposite of what porous materials do.