How to Start Caring for Low Porosity Hair

We all know that I’m a high porosity girl, however, I have many readers who have low porosity. It’s only right that I include tips on caring for low porosity hair, I can’t leave you guys hanging!

I’ve done a lot of research and at one point thought I was low porosity because of the “Float Test”. However, once I started paying attention to the characteristics of my hair, that’s when all signs pointed to high porosity.

I had to switch up my regimen and noticed a huge difference afterward! That’s why knowing your porosity is important — it’ll help you choose the right products and techniques for your hair.

What’s Low Porosity?

Low porosity hair has tightly sealed cuticles that make it difficult for moisture to be absorbed and penetrate.

Here are some characteristics:

• Your hair takes a while to get saturated
• Water beads on top of your hair
• Products sit on top of your hair
• Your styles take longer to dry
• You may be sensitive to protein

Although those things can be frustrating at times, caring for low porosity hair doesn’t have to be a hassle. You can still maintain healthy hair by following the tips in this post.

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Caring for Low Porosity Hair

Use Heat on Your Hair

Since the cuticles are tightly sealed and can have a hard time absorbing products, it’s important to use heat in your regimen. One way to incorporate this step is while you’re deep conditioning your hair.

You can add heat by using one of the following:

• Thermal Cap
• Handheld Steamer
• Hooded Steamer
• Hair Dryer

Heat will help to open up the cuticles which will allow your product to penetrate more effectively.

Clarify Regularly

Cleansing your hair is important for the overall health of your scalp.

When it comes to low porosity hair, you want to shampoo regularly since it’s prone to product buildup. You can use a clarifying shampoo or one of my favorites, clay washes!

With the number of products we use, it’s easier for low porosity hair to have buildup. Products may sit on top of your hair if they aren’t properly absorbed. If you continue to apply more on top, it can lead to dryness, flakes, and limp curls.

Some people use sulfates to remove buildup, however, there are other natural, effective options to choose from.

Related Post: 6 Amazing Shampoos that Won’t Dry Out Your Curls

Avoid Heavy Products + Silicones

Everyone isn’t picky about what they use on their hair, however, if you want to prevent product buildup, then paying attention to the ingredients you use is important.

Products that contain silicones or heavy butter/oils can be too much for low porosity hair. It can build up quickly which will lead to less moisture retention.

Use lightweight oils and refresher sprays to keep your curls moisturized throughout the week!

Be Careful With Protein

The last tip is to be careful when using protein. One thing I’ve heard the most from those with low porosity is using protein makes their hair feel dry and brittle.

Having a good moisture-protein balance in your regimen is important, however, make sure you’re paying attention to how your hair looks and feels. You don’t want to end up using too much of one thing.

It’s also important to pay attention to the other products you’re using such as shampoo, leave-in conditioner, and styling creams since they can contain proteins.

You’ll have to go through trial and error to see which proteins work best for your hair and which ones you should steer clear of.

I hope this post helped you realize that caring for low porosity hair doesn’t have to be difficult.

It’s all about paying attention to your hair and following healthy hair practices. If you have low porosity hair, keep these tips in mind so you can start maintaining the overall health of your curls!