Here’s how to do a quick elasticity test for your hair.
First, we know we want it, but what does elasticity actually mean?
The elasticity level of hair is its ability to stretch and then return to its original shape.
I’m going to show you a quick test which will show you whether your hair has low, medium or high elasticity.
This is an at-home test, so the results will not be foolproof, but this is a test devised by cosmetologists that will give you an idea of your hair’s condition and whether you need to do treatments to improve elasticity levels.
The Elasticity Test Method
- Pull out a strand of hair from just above your ear
- Hold the strand between your thumb and forefinger of one hand
- Run your other thumbnail along the strand. The strand should curl up; imagine you are curling a ribbon with scissors. If your hair is curly, the strand should curl up even more tightly than usual
- Now hold the strand of hair straight for 10 seconds
- Let go. Now look at the pattern of the curl
The Results
- If your hair has retained the tight curl, your hair has good elasticity
- If you think the strand has retained around 50% of the curl, this indicates low to medium elasticity
- If the strand has retained less than 50% of the original curl, your hair has low elasticity
Its a judgement call!
What Does This Mean?
High elasticity or Medium elasticity
Your hair is in good condition. Continue with your routine. It is working! Regular conditioning treatments and avoiding external stress such as heated tools will keep your hair in great condition.
Low elasticity
This means that the hair is brittle and will break easily. Let’s look into the reasons behind this and see what can be done to help.
Why Does My Hair Have Low Elasticity?
Don’t panic – curly hair tends to have low elasticity levels. This is because it is naturally drier than other hair types.
This can be the result of external stress on the hair.
- Colouring or bleaching
- Heat styling
- UV damage
- Friction from brushing
These factors can lead to low moisture and protein levels in your hair.
Moisture is essential for healthy, bouncy hair
Protein is essential for maintaining the structure of your hair.
How Can I Fix Low Elasticity?
Moisturising your hair regularly with deep conditioning treatments (every 2-4 washes) and using a leave-in conditioner every time you wash are great ways to start bringing your hair back to a healthy elasticity level.
Protein treatments can help to temporarily ‘patch up’ damaged areas. The only way to get rid of them permanently is with scissors 😒 . Once you have done a treatment, the protein will gradually diminish over the following 4-6 weeks, so, generally speaking, this is how frequently you should use one.
Products To Help Regain Elasticity
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Deep conditioning treatments
Noughty To The Rescue Deep Conditioning Treatment –
A deep conditioning moisture treatment containing sweet almond oil – one of my favourite treatments.
Imbue Curl Restoring Intensive Mask
A deep conditioning treatment containing both moisturising ingredients and protein.
Leave-in treatments
Noughty Intensive Care Leave-In Conditioner
My go-to leave-in conditioner. Formulated for damaged, frizzy hair. It’s light, moisturising and also contains wheat amino acids for a small amount of regular protein.
At-home treatment
I do this gelatine treatment every 6 weeks. An inexpensive, if slightly messy, way to increase protein levels!

Speak soon,
Lauren xx
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