Is a flakey layer of rust like a moisture sponge?

[aggressive male]

One of my friends and I are disagreeing about which type of rust grows faster. the flakey type left alone bubbling through paint or the type where the paint and loose flakes are cleaned off once in a while? In other words does loose paint and flakey rust trap moisture making it grow faster? Or does it help protect the good metal from rust?

[NOT A TA]

The loose paint and flakey rust continues to rust faster. At least on a car I tested that same thing on in new england.
John

[aggressive male]

Thanks NOT A TA, I thought that was so.