WHAT ARE LOW POROSITY HAIR?

Low porosity hair is a hair type that has tightly closed and compact cuticles. These cuticles are responsible for controlling the amount of moisture that enters and exits the hair shaft. In low porosity hair, the tightly packed cuticles make it difficult for moisture to penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in a lack of moisture. This can make low porosity hair more prone to buildup and dryness because natural oils, conditioners, and other hair products simply sit on the surface of the hair without being fully absorbed. Additionally, low porosity hair can be more difficult to process with chemical treatments like perms or hair color because the tightly packed cuticles prevent the chemicals from penetrating the hair shaft.

HOW TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE LOW POROSITY HAIR?

Low porosity hair has a tightly packed cuticle layer that prevents moisture from entering the hair shaft. Here are some signs and symptoms of low porosity hair:

1. Difficulty absorbing water: Low porosity hair often repels water, and it's challenging to get it wet. It takes a long time to soak through, even when you wet it down with water.

2. Slow drying time: Low porosity hair takes longer to dry because water forms beads on the surface of the hair, making it difficult to penetrate the hair shaft. Heat styling tools like hair dryers and flat irons can also take longer to work on low porosity hair.

3. Product buildup: Low porosity hair has a hard time absorbing products, which can lead to product buildup on the hair and scalp. This can cause itchy, flaky scalp, dull, lifeless hair, and scalp odor.

4. Lack of moisture: Due to the tightly packed cuticle layer, low porosity hair has difficulty retaining moisture, leading to dry, brittle, and easily breakable hair.

5. Hair doesn't react well to protein treatments: Low porosity hair is often protein-sensitive. Protein treatments and products can make the hair feel dry, brittle, and straw-like.

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, you may have low porosity hair. It's essential to take care of low porosity hair properly, hydrate it regularly with deep-conditioning treatments, clarifying shampoos, and using lightweight, water-based products to keep it moisturized.

HOW TO TEST FOR POROSITY?

There are different methods to check if your hair has low porosity. Here are a few ways:

1. The Float Test:

Fill a glass with water and place a few strands of clean, dry hair on top of the water. If the hair floats on top of the water for a long time before sinking, it's likely low porosity hair.

2. The Spray Test:

Take a small section of hair and spritz it with water. If the water beads up and doesn't fully absorb into the hair after a few seconds, it's likely low porosity hair.

3. The Slip 'n' Slide Test:

Take a strand of clean, dry hair and run your fingers up and down the length of the hair. If your fingers glide smoothly along the hair without encountering any bumps or snags, it's likely low porosity hair.

If you find that your hair is low porosity, you may need to adjust your hair care routine and products to better suit your hair type. For example, using heat during deep conditioning can help open up the cuticles and help with the absorption of moisture. Additionally, using lightweight products that are specifically formulated for low porosity hair may be more effective than heavier products that can weigh down the hair.

HOW TO MOISTURIZE LOW POROSITY HAIR?

Low porosity hair can be challenging to moisturize; because the cuticles are tightly packed, it can be difficult for products to penetrate the hair shaft and trap water in the hair. However, there are some methods to help moisturize low porosity hair:

1. Heat:

Using heat during a deep conditioning treatment can help to open up the cuticles and allow moisture to penetrate the hair shaft. You can sit under a hooded dryer or use a steam cap to add heat to your deep conditioning treatment.

2. Clarifying:

In low porosity hair, buildup can interfere with moisture absorption. Therefore, clarifying your hair regularly with a gentle clarifying shampoo can help to remove product buildup that prevents moisture from penetrating the hair strands.

3. Water-Based Products:

Look for hair products with lightweight, water-based formulas that can absorb more easily into the hair shaft. Products such as leave-in conditioners, spritzes, and moisturizing creams formulated specifically for low porosity hair can be great for adding moisture.

4. LCO or LOC Method:

Using the Liquid, Cream, Oil (LCO), or the Liquid, Oil, Cream (LOC) method can be a helpful strategy. This method involves applying a water-based leave-in conditioner, sealing moisture with oil, and then applying a creamy product on top to complete the process.

5. Humectants:

Humectants like glycerin and honey can help to pull moisture from the air and into your hair. Products that contain humectants can attract moisture from the environment and help to keep your hair hydrated.

No matter what method or technique you use to moisturize low porosity hair, consistency is key. Regular deep conditioning, clarifying, and being mindful of the types of products you use will help to keep your hair moisturized and healthy.

BEST OILS FOR LOW POROSITY HAIR

Due to the tightly packed cuticles of low porosity hair, it can be challenging for products to penetrate the hair shaft and provide the necessary hydration and nourishment. This is where natural oils can be useful. Here are some of the best oils for low porosity hair:

1. Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is very similar to the sebum naturally produced by the scalp, making it an excellent option for low porosity hair. It is a non-greasy oil that can penetrate the hair shaft and provide long-lasting hydration.

2. Grape Seed oil: Grape Seed oil is lightweight and easily absorbed into the hair shaft, providing essential fatty acids that help moisturize and nourish the hair.

3. Coconut oil: Coconut oil can penetrate the hair shaft and provide deep hydration to the hair. However, for low porosity hair, coconut oil should be used sparingly in moderation because it can lead to heavy buildup and create a barrier that prevents moisture from penetrating the hair further.

4. Argan oil: Argan oil is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids that can nourish and hydrate low porosity hair. It's lightweight and quickly absorbs into the hair without leaving any greasy residue.

5. Sweet almond oil: Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamins and minerals that help nourish the hair and scalp. It's lightweight, easily absorbed, and an excellent option for sealing in moisture on low porosity hair.

Remember that it's essential to use oils in moderation to avoid excessive buildup on low porosity hair. It's also a good idea to try different oils to find the ones that work best on your hair.

HAIR PRODUCTS FOR LOW POROSITY HAIR

Finding the right hair products for low porosity hair is key to maintaining its health, manageability, and moisture balance. Here are some recommended products for low porosity hair:

1. Co-wash:

A co-wash is a gentle, sulfate-free product that cleanses and conditions the scalp and hair without stripping it of natural oils. Some great co-wash options for low porosity hair include As I Am Coconut CoWash, Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Co-Wash Conditioning Cleanser, and Mielle Organics Detangling Co-Wash.

2. Leave-in Conditioner:

A leave-in conditioner provides long-lasting hydration and nourishment to the hair. Some recommended leave-in conditioners for low porosity hair include Kinky-Curly Knot Today, Aunt Jackie's Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In Conditioner, and Giovanni Direct Leave-In Weightless Moisture Conditioner.

3. Deep Conditioner:

A deep conditioner helps to provide intensive hydration and nourishment to the hair; it's especially important for low porosity hair since it can struggle to retain moisture. Some recommended deep conditioning treatments include SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque, Mielle Organics Babassu Oil & Mint Deep Conditioner, and Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioner.

4. Moisturizing Cream:

A moisturizing cream helps to lock in moisture and provide hold to the hair. Some recommended moisturizing creams for low porosity hair include the As I Am Double Butter Cream, Miss Jessie's Pillow Soft Curls, and Cantu Shea Butter Moisturizing Curl Activator Cream.

5. Oils:

Natural oils help to nourish hair and seal in moisture. Some recommended oils for low porosity hair include jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, argan oil, sweet almond oil, and avocado oil.

Remember that what works for one person's low porosity hair may not work for another. It's important to try different products and techniques to determine what works best for you and your hair.

HOME REMEDIES TO TREAT LOW POROSITY HAIR

There are several home remedies that can be used to treat low porosity hair. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Apple cider vinegar rinse: Apple cider vinegar helps to remove buildup and flatten the hair cuticle, making it easier for moisture to penetrate. Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 2 cups of water and use as a final rinse after shampooing. Do this once a week.

2. Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera is a great natural humectant that helps to retain moisture in the hair. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to clean, damp hair and style as usual.

3. Rice water rinse: Rice water is rich in amino acids that help to strengthen the hair cuticle. Soak 1 cup of rice in 2 cups of water for a few hours or overnight. Strain the rice and use the water as a final rinse after shampooing.

4. Coconut oil mask: Coconut oil is a great natural conditioner that helps to penetrate the hair shaft. Warm up a few tablespoons of coconut oil and apply to clean, damp hair. Cover with a plastic cap and leave on for 30 minutes before rinsing out.

5. Honey: Honey is a natural humectant that helps to retain moisture in the hair. Mix 1/4 cup of honey with 2 cups of water and use as a final rinse after shampooing.

Remember, these home remedies may not work for everyone and may not provide an immediate solution to low porosity hair. It is important to exercise patience and consistency when trying out these remedies.

FAQs

1. What is low porosity hair?

Low porosity hair refers to hair that has a tightly closed cuticle, making it more difficult for moisture and nutrients to penetrate the hair shaft.

2. What are the signs of low porosity hair?

Signs of low porosity hair include slow absorption of hair products, difficulty in wetting the hair, and the hair feels hard or waxy.

3. What causes low porosity hair?

Low porosity hair can be genetic or caused by external factors such as overuse of heat styling tools, exposure to harsh chemicals, or damage from certain hair products.

4. Can low porosity hair be treated?

Yes, low porosity hair can be treated through daily hair care routines that involve using products that are designed specifically for low porosity hair and engaging in regular deep conditioning treatments.

5. What are some recommended products for low porosity hair?

Products that are rich in protein and contain low-pH ingredients, such as apple cider vinegar, are highly recommended for low porosity hair. Other recommended products include leave-in conditioners, hair oils, and humidity-resistant gels.

6. How can I increase the porosity of my hair?

Using heat to open up the cuticle and allow moisture and nutrients to penetrate the hair shaft is often recommended for increasing the porosity of hair. However, it is important to use heat styling tools sparingly and to always use heat protectant products. Additionally, using hair products that are designed for high porosity hair can also help to increase the porosity of your hair.

7. How often should I deep condition my low porosity hair?

It is recommended that individuals with low porosity hair engage in deep conditioning treatments once a week to help restore moisture and improve the overall health of their hair.

CONCLUSION

Low porosity hair requires specific products and techniques to keep it moisturized and healthy. Deep conditioning, clarifying, and using lightweight, water-based products can help to keep low porosity hair hydrated. Natural oils like jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and argan oil can also provide nourishment to the hair. Remember, it's essential to be patient and consistent in managing low porosity hair as what works for one person may not work for another. With the right products and care, low porosity hair can thrive.