If you have low porosity hair, you know that your hair is harder to manage and often dries out quickly. However, with the proper care, you can keep your locks healthy and hydrated. Low-porosity hair can be tricky to take care of, but with the correct information and products, you can keep your locks looking gorgeous!
What is low-porosity hair?
Low-porosity hair is a type of hair that is not as porous as other types of hair. This means the cuticles are close together and do not allow as much moisture to absorb. For this reason, low-porosity hair can be more challenging to style and more prone to dryness. There are some ways to manage low porosity hair, but you can have beautiful, healthy locks with some know-how. You’ve probably heard of it being mentioned in online hair forums or during a conversation with a friend who’s into hair care.
Low Porosity Hair Characteristics
Low porosity hair has a cuticle layer that is tightly sealed and does not readily absorb moisture or other substances. This can make it difficult for products and treatments to penetrate the hair shaft and provide nourishment. Low-porosity hair tends to be more resistant to damage but can also be more prone to dryness and breakage if not adequately cared for.
Some characteristics of low porosity hair include
- Shiny appearance: Low porosity hair tends to have a smooth, shiny appearance because the cuticle layer is sealed and reflects light well.
- Difficulty absorbing products: Because the cuticle layer is tightly sealed, low-porosity hair may have trouble absorbing products such as conditioners and treatments. This can make it challenging to moisturize and nourish the hair.
- Dryness: Low porosity hair may be prone to dryness because it cannot easily absorb moisture from the environment or products.
- Resistant to damage: Low porosity hair tends to be more resistant to damage because the cuticle layer is sealed and does not allow for the penetration of damaging substances.
- Slow to dry: Low porosity hair may take longer because the cuticle layer is sealed and prevents moisture from escaping quickly.
Proper care for low-porosity hair includes using products specifically formulated for low-porosity hair and using heat to open the cuticle layer to allow products to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. It is also essential to use a deep conditioning treatment regularly to help moisturize and nourish the hair.
What causes low porosity?
Low porosity hair is characterized by tightly bound cuticles that make it difficult for moisture to penetrate the shaft. Several factors can contribute to soft porosity hair, including:
- Genetics: One of the leading causes of low porosity hair is genetics. If you have naturally tightly coiled or curly hair, you are more likely to have low porosity hair.
- Heat styling: Using heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, regularly can cause the cuticles of your hair to become damaged and tightly bound together, leading to low porosity.
- Chemical treatments: Using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or hair dyes, can also cause the cuticles of your hair to become damaged and tightly bound together, leading to low porosity.
- Environmental factors: Living in a dry climate or using hot water when washing your hair can also contribute to low porosity, as these factors can cause the cuticles of your hair to become damaged and tightly bound together.
By avoiding these factors and taking proper care of your hair, you can help to prevent or minimize low porosity.
How to take care of low-porosity hair-10 Tips
Low porosity hair has a hard time absorbing moisture, as the cuticles of the hair are tightly bound together. Here are some tips for caring for low-porosity hair:
Use Lightweight Oils
Low-porosity hair tends to repel moisture, making it crucial to choose lightweight oils that can penetrate the hair shaft easily. Opt for argan oil, jojoba oil, or grapeseed oil, as they won’t weigh your hair down while providing much-needed nourishment and shine.
Use Heat When Deep Conditioning
To maximize the benefits of deep conditioning, applying gentle heat is essential. The warmth helps open the hair cuticles, allowing the deep conditioner to penetrate the strands effectively. Use a shower cap or plastic wrap and apply heat using a hairdryer on a low setting for 15-20 minutes.
Steam The Hair
Steaming your low-porosity hair is another excellent way to promote moisture retention. Steam helps to raise the hair cuticles gently, allowing moisturizing products to penetrate better. You can use a hair steamer or steam your hair in the shower while applying your favorite deep conditioner.
Beware of Protein
While protein is essential for hair health, overusing protein-based products can cause your low-porosity hair to become brittle and prone to breakage. Opt for protein-free or low-protein hair care products and use protein treatments sparingly.
Avoid Heavy Products
Thick, heavy products can weigh down your low-porosity hair, making it appear flat and lifeless. Look for lightweight, water-based leave-in conditioners and styling products that won’t leave residue or build up.
Treat & Prevent Build-Up
Low porosity hair is prone to product build-up, which can hinder moisture absorption and lead to dull-looking locks. Regularly clarify your hair using a gentle clarifying shampoo or apple cider vinegar rinse to remove any product build-up and restore your hair’s natural shine.
Look for Water-Based Products
Water is the best moisturizer for your hair, and using water-based products ensures your low-porosity hair receives the hydration it craves. Look for products with water listed as the primary ingredient to maintain your hair’s moisture balance.
Avoid Silicones
Silicone-based products can create a barrier on the hair shaft, preventing much-needed moisture from entering. Instead, opt for silicone-free products that promote better moisture retention for your low-porosity hair.
Swap Your Pillowcase
Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your hair, leaving it dry and frizzy. Switch to a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and retain moisture, ensuring you wake up with well-moisturized, frizz-free hair.
Shop Specific
When shopping for hair care products, specifically look for those labeled as suitable for low-porosity hair. These products are designed with the unique needs of low-porosity hair in mind, making them more effective in keeping your locks healthy and vibrant.
FAQ
How do you moisturize low-porosity hair daily?
The best way to moisturize low-porosity hair daily is to use a light, natural product. Avoid anything containing silicones or other heavy ingredients, and look for effects designed explicitly for low-porosity hair.
What Should low porosity hair avoid?
Low porosity hair should avoid anything that contains silicones or other heavy ingredients. You should also avoid using heat styling tools, which can further damage your fragile strands.
Should you wet low-porosity hair every day?
No, you should not wet low-porosity hair every day. This can make your hair drier, as it will strip away the natural oils that help keep it moisturized. Instead, you should only wet your hair when necessary, such as shampooing or applying conditioner.
