Struggling with dryness and breakage due to tightly closed cuticles? You might have low porosity hair, which often has difficulty absorbing moisture. To combat this issue, it’s essential to choose products carefully.
One excellent option for low porosity hair is a leave-in conditioner. These products are designed to penetrate the hair shaft, ensuring that moisture is effectively locked in. Look for ingredients like water, conditioning agents (such as Behentrimonium Chloride or Behentrimonium Methosulfate), emollients (like fatty alcohols), extracts, humectants (such as Glycerin, Honey, or Sodium PCA), and plant-based oils (like Coconut, Olive, Argan, or Jojoba Oil).
For damaged hair, consider ingredients like light-weight oils, amino acids, provitamins, panthenol, hydrolyzed proteins (such as silk, keratin, wheat, or collagen), peptides, Cetrimonium bromide, and Cetrimonium chloride. These penetrating ingredients work wonders in restoring moisture and vitality to low porosity locks, leaving them soft, hydrated, and resilient.
Top Leave-In Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair
For your reference, we have provided the ingredient lists for each product. Nevertheless, it is important to know that these lists may be outdated. Therefore, we recommend referring to the information on the product bottle for the most accurate and current details. Also, make sure to check the size of the product as each site varies.
1. Alikay Naturals Lemongrass Leave in Conditioner
This award-winning leave-in conditioner, now with a fresh look but unchanged formula, features lemongrass oil to strengthen hair follicles, promote growth, reduce breakage, soothe scalps, and add shine.
Suitable for all hair types, it can be used daily for detangling or styling, delivering moisture, definition, and a noticeable softness and shine. Its convenient spray nozzle ensures a swift application, enhancing your morning routine.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(Aloe Vera Juice) , Cetearyl Alcohol(Coconut derived), Stearalkonium Chloride(Coconut derived), Silk Amino Acids(Natural protein), Vegetable Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Cymbopogon Flexosus ( Lemongrass) Oil Extract, Behentrimonium Methosulfate (Natural Detangling Agent), Sorbic Acid(Food Grade Preservative), Fragrance, Yellow #5, Botanical Blend.
2. As I Am Leave in Conditioner
This natural blend is enriched with coconut, saw palmetto, amla, and green to reduce tangles, strengthen hair, and promote healthy growth.
This vegan, cruelty-free formula adds moisture and shine without heaviness. It facilitates easier wet combing and styling, preventing tangles and breakage.
Moreover, it primes hair for the application of custards, gels, or setting creams, ensuring a flawless finish.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Powder, Phyllanthus Emblica Fruit Powder, Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract, Phytosterols, Serenoa Serrulata Fruit Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Betaine, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Polyacrylamide, Fragrance/Parfum, Anise Alcohol, Coumarin, Limonene.
3. Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Leave in Conditioner
This leave-in is a remedy for dry, damaged hair, blending natural ingredients like Marshmallow Root, Shea Butter, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
This formula offers enduring hydration, enhancing hair’s elasticity, softness, and shine while minimizing breakage.
Marshmallow Root infuses hair with nutrients for long-term thickness, while Shea Butter locks in moisture, protects against heat, and boosts shine. Extra Virgin Olive Oil nourishes the scalp and fosters new hair growth.
Beyond its health benefits, this conditioner simplifies detangling, allowing brushes to glide through knots without damage. It also seals cuticles, combating frizz and flyaways.
Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, Ulmus Fulva Bark Extract, Parfum, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Panthenol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Benzyl Alcohol, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Amyl Cinnamal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Citronellol, Hydroxycitronellal, Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Blue 1 (CI 42090).
4. Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love Moisture Milk
This is a premium leave-in conditioner tailored for curly hair. Infused with rice milk and macadamia nut oil, it deeply hydrates hair and scalp, enhancing curl length and softness.
This formula simplifies detangling, reduces frizz, and adds shine, while shielding curls from heat and environmental damage.
Made with natural ingredients, it fortifies the hair cuticle against breakage. Rice milk, rich in amino acids, boosts strength, and macadamia nut oil nourishes, hydrates, and soothes the scalp, preventing dryness and irritation.
Ingredients: Deionized Water, Behentrimonium Methosulfate (BTMS), Cetearyl Alcohol, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Sorbitol, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Milk, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil, Ceteareth-20, Ulmus Fulva (Slippery Elm) Bark Extract, Phenoxyethanol (Optiphen ND), Caprylyl Glycol, Phthalate Free Fragrance.
5. Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Daily Leave in Conditioner
This is a lightweight formula designed to repair and protect damaged hair while restoring softness.
Packed with nourishing ingredients like almond oil, aloe butter, shea oil, and more, it deeply nourishes both hair and scalp.
Specifically crafted for severely damaged, over-processed hair, its ingredients work from within to mend each strand.
Coconut-derived fatty acids replenish moisture, preventing breakage and split ends, while antioxidants shield hair from environmental damage like pollution and UV rays.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Butylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Calendula Officinalis Extract, Carbomer, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Extract, Dimethicone PEG-8 Meadowfoamate, Disodium EDTA, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG-Propyl Silanetriol, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein/PVP, Crosspolymer, Lactic Acid, Laureth-23, Laureth-4, Panthenol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-75 Meadowfoam Oil, Polyquaternium-11, Polyquaternium-7, Polysorbate 20, Potassium Sorbate, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Seed Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Retinyl Palmitate, Silicone Quaternium-3, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Trideceth-12, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Fragrance (Parfum). Ingredients may vary.
6. Curl Junkie Curl Queen Leave-In Conditioner
This conditioner is formulated to provide moisture while maintaining the hair’s natural bounce and vitality. It helps to control and manage styling routines, making it perfect for smoothing, softening, and conditioning waves, curls, and coils. Ideal for those with fine hair types, it offers a subtle level of hold without any stiffness or crunchiness, serving as an excellent alternative to traditional styling gel
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetyl Esters, Vaccinium macrocarpon (Cranberry) seed oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), COCOS NUCIFERA (Virgin Coconut) OIL, THEOBROMA CACAO SEED BUTTER (Cocoa Butter), Chondrus Crispus (Irish moss) extract, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-10, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Butylene Glycol, Guar Hydroxypropytrimonium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Fragrance/Parfum, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol.
7. Curlsmith Weightless Air Dry Cream – Leave-In Conditioner
This vegan leave-in conditioner is tailored to enhance curl texture without the heaviness. Its ultra-light, silky formula is perfect for fine hair types that need hydration without the weight, yet it’s nourishing enough for coarser hair, thanks to ingredients like castor oil, babassu, jojoba, and murumuru butter.
This cream absorbs swiftly, leaving no residue, making it ideal for air drying or diffusing for a buoyant style. It’s a boon for those with curls that shy away from heavy products, offering hydration, shine, definition, and frizz control.
The blend of oils and butter ensures moisture without the drag, ensuring your curls remain lively and free from product build-up.
Ingredients: WATER (AQUA), RICINUS COMMUNIS (CASTOR) SEED OIL, DICAPRYLYL CARBONATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, ORBIGNYA SPECIOSA (BABASSU) KERNEL OIL, BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, ASTROCARYUM MURUMURU SEED BUTTER, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER, HYLOCEREUS UNDATUS (DRAGON FRUIT) FRUIT EXTRACT, PAULLINIA CUPANA (GUARANA) SEED EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) LEAF EXTRACT, ZINGIBER OFFICINALE (GINGER) ROOT EXTRACT, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, PANTHENOL, GUAR HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, TOCOPHEROL, DISODIUM EDTA, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, GLYCERIN, CITRIC ACID, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, POTASSIUM SORBATE, SODIUM BENZOATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, FRAGRANCE (PARFUM), LINALOOL, LIMONENE, CITRONELLOL.
8. EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea Leave-In Conditioner
This is a daily treatment that hydrates and locks in moisture, enhancing shine and guarding against protein loss. Its key ingredients, coconut oil and shea butter, are deeply nourished, resulting in stronger, softer, and more manageable hair.
With a creamy yet light texture, it ensures even application. Beyond conditioning, it’s an ideal style primer for wash ‘n go looks, extending style duration. Ingredients like aloe vera, avocado oil, and jojoba oil promote scalp health and improve hair condition.
Coconut oil provides hydration and protection against breakage and environmental damage, while shea butter revitalizes dry hair, imparting a lustrous finish.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Polyquaternium-37, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, PEG-50 Shea Butter, Glycerin, Cetrimonium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Panthenyl Hydroxypropyl Steardimonium Chloride, Sodium PCA, Polyquaternium-7, Fragrance (Parfum), PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol.
9. Giovanni Direct Leave-In Weightless Moisture Conditioner
This leave-in conditioner boasts a blend of natural ingredients aimed at rejuvenating weakened hair, enhancing its shine, and providing ample moisture for body and easy styling.
Vegan-friendly and safe for colored hair, it ensures vibrant looks without compromising hair health. Its luxurious oil mix nourishes each strand, offering protection and weightless hydration that amplifies hair’s texture without heaviness, resulting in a fuller, healthier appearance.
It incorporates USDA National Organic Program-approved ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, rosemary, lavender oil, and more. This rich blend is ideal for revitalizing stressed or damaged hair.
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Cetyl Alcohol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Natural Fragrance, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Extract, *Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, *Betula Alba Extract, *Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, *Achillea Millefolium Extract, *Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, *Equisetum Arvense Extract, *Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, *Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, *Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, *Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Extract, *Tussilago Farfara (Coltsfoot) Flower Extract, *Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract.
10. Innersense Sweet Spirit Leave in Conditioner
Innersense is a lightweight, hydrating detangler enriched with natural ingredients like tamanu oil, organic rice proteins, and rosemary oil. These components offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing benefits, shielding hair from environmental harm and fortifying it from root to tip.
Tamanu oil, derived from the revered Tamanu tree, is rich in lipids and fatty acids, nourishing the scalp and reducing inflammation. Organic rice proteins hydrate and fortify hair, guarding against free radical damage. Rosemary oil stimulates scalp circulation, promotes hair growth, and offers anti-fungal properties to combat dandruff.
This conditioner also features honey, lavender, rooibos tea, and oregano. Honey retains moisture, soothes sensitive scalps, and offers a light styling hold. Lavender, a versatile essential oil, balances scalp conditions and rejuvenates tired cells.
Rooibos tea, packed with antioxidants, combats signs of aging in hair. Oregano invigorates the scalp, enhancing blood circulation and offering relief from external irritants. In essence, this conditioner revitalizes hair and scalp, restoring their natural balance.
Ingredients: water/aqua/eau, aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf gel*, cetearyl alcohol, glycerin, distearoylethyl dimonium chloride, caprylic/capric triglyceride, hydrolyzed quinoa*, gluconolactone, sodium benzoate, calcium gluconate, potassium sorbate, benzyl acetate, linalyl acetate, citronellol†, abies balsamea needle oil*, juniperus virginiana (cedar) oil*, alpha-terpineol, amyl cinnamal†, linalool†, pogostemon cablin (patchouli) leaf oil, salvia sclarea (clary sage) oil, citrus reticulata (tangerine) peel oil, mentha citrata herb oil, eugenia cayophyllus (clove) oil, michelia alba leaf oil, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil, citrus limon (lemon) peel oil, citrus aurantifolia (lime) oil, lavandula hybrida (lavandin) oil, cinnamomum camphora (camphor) bark oil, alpha-lonone, evernia prunastri (oakmoss) extract, anisaldehyde, cistus ladaniferus resin, menthol, myristica fragrans (nutmeg) kernel oil, jasminum grandiflorum flower (jasmine) extract, nerol, benzaldehyde, chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract*, eucalyptus globulus leaf extract*, ginkgo biloba leaf extract*, aspalathus linearis leaf extract*, honey extract*, calophyllum inophyllum (tamanu) oil, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) oil, citric acid, eugenol†, limonene†*Certified Organic †A natural component of essential oils.
11. Jane Carter Solutions Revitalizing Leave-In Conditioner Spray
This conditioning spray is infused with sunflower and aloe vera, offers a moisture boost, and detangles without heaviness. The formula deeply hydrates, enhancing shine, softness, and manageability. Suitable for all hair types, it provides hydration and shields hair from heat styling and environmental damage.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Polyquarternium-7, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Polysorbate 20, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Potassium Sorbate, Hexylene Glycol, Panthenol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Honey, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Leaf Extract, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Lawsonia Inermis (Henna) Extract, Fragrance (Parfum).
12. Kinky Curly Knot Today Detangler
This is a potent leave-in solution tailored for curly hair. Infused with organic fruit extracts, herbs, olive oil, shea butter, marshmallow root, and agave nectar, it moisturizes and emits a light, refreshing aroma.
Designed for curly hair, it instantly untangles knots and seals in moisture when applied to wet or damp hair. It combats frizz, split ends, and heat damage, ensuring curls remain vibrant in any weather.
This natural detangler is safe for color-treated hair and can be used daily without stripping natural oils or adding weight.
Ingredients: Botanical Infusion Of, Water/Aqua, Mangifera Indica/Organic Mango Extract, Ulmus Fulva/Organic Slippery Elm, Althaea Officinalis/Organic Marshmallow Root, Cymbopogon Flexuosus/Organic Lemongrass, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance.
13. Mielle Organics White Peony Leave-In Conditioner
This is a lightweight, ultra-hydrating formula enriched with natural ingredients. It seals in moisture, smooths the hair shaft, tames frizz, and protects against heat damage.
Key ingredients include white peony extract for nourishment and shine; camelina oil for frizz control and scalp hydration; argan oil, rich in vitamins and fatty acids for scalp moisturization; and hibiscus extract for added volume and shine.
This conditioner rejuvenates damaged hair, prevents breakage, and is sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and pH balanced for optimal results.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearalkonium Choloride, Phenoxyethanol, Cocos Nucifera (coconut) Oil, Polysorbate 60, Centrimonium Chloride, Cetyl alcohol, Fragrance (Parfum), Hydroxypropyl Guar, Aloe Barbadensis Leave Juice (Decolorized), Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernal Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Gluconolacone, Silk Amino Acids, *Camellia Sinensis (White Peony) Tea Extract, *Camelia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, *Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Yucca Vera Leaf/Root Extract, *Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, *Nettle Dioica (Nettle) Leaf, *Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, *Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Leuconostoc/sorbus Acuparia Fruit Ferment Filtrate, Trideceth-12, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglyerine, Glyereth-2 Cocoate.*CERTIFIED ORGANIC INGREDIENTS.
14. Oyin Handmade Hair Dew Daily Quenching Hair Lotion
This is a natural moisturizer formulated to nourish and hydrate hair. Enriched with castor oil and olive squalane, this award-winning lotion minimizes breakage, keeping kinks, coils, and curls refreshed. Ideal as a post-wash leave-in or a mid-week boost for dry strands, it offers hydration with a pleasant vanilla cookie aroma.
Using this ensures soft, elastic, and hydrated hair, reducing styling-induced breakage. It guarantees glossy, manageable hair, even in extreme climates or with protective styles.
Ingredients: purified water, ricinus communis (castor) oil, olea europaea (olive) oil, aloe barbadensis leaf juice (organic), olea europaea (olive) oil, behentrimonium methosulfate (and) cetearyl alcohol (emulsifier derived from colza oil), cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, cetyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol (and) caprylyl glycol (preservative), squalane (from olive oil), fragrance.
15. Qhemet Biologics Leave-in Conditioner
This lightweight, creamy leave-in conditioner is tailored for medium-low porosity hair, which is often fragile and breakage-prone.
Enriched with coconut oil for strength and softness, moringa oil for shine and slip, and ayurvedic amla and brahmi herbs to nourish the scalp and support hair growth, it ensures hair remains soft and manageable without any residue.
This conditioner not only hydrates but also reduces potential breakage, and while it’s light, it’s potent enough to elongate curls for a healthy appearance.
Ingredients: Aqueous Botanical Infusion of Phyllanthus Emblica (Amla) Extract, Bacopa Monniera (Brahmi) Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle Leaf) Extract, Arctiumlappa (Burdock Root) Extract, Avena Sativa (Oatstraw) Extract, Virgin Organic Coconut (Cocos Nucifera) Oil, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Dicetyldimonium Chloride (Quaternary Conditioner), Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) Oil, MSM (Methylsufonylmethane), Phthalate-free Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin (Paraben-free and Formaldehyde-free Preservative), Butylene Glycol.
16. Taliah Waajid Shea Coco Daily Leave In Conditioner
This conditioner offers profound hydration, especially for hair craving moisture. It is enriched with shea butter and coconut oil, it nourishes the scalp, reduces split ends, repairs damage, and imparts shine. This duo ensures hair remains soft and radiant.
The conditioner prevents moisture loss, making it ideal for daily use. It also shields hair from heat and environmental damage. Its lightweight nature ensures quick absorption without leaving a greasy residue or causing frizz. It suits sensitive individuals and includes aloe vera to support healthy hair growth.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Propanediol, Vegetable Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol/ Cetrimonium Bromide, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Parfum (Fragrance), Phenoxyethanol and Caprylyl Glycol.
17. The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage and Repair Antidote Leave-In Lotion
This is a potent conditioner ideal for hair susceptible to breakage and damage. It’s enriched with natural oils like kalahari, oleaster, mongongo, and baobab, known for strengthening hair, enhancing shine, and aiding repair. The formula boasts Omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, vital for nourishing hair follicles.
Hydrolyzed collagen seals in moisture, preventing frizz and dryness, while Pro Vitamin B5 enhances hair elasticity and reduces breakage. Free from parabens and sulfates, this lotion offers comprehensive hair care.
Ingredients: Aqua (Purified Water), Biotin, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Behentrimonium Methosulfate (Non- Sulfate Derived From Rapeseed Oil), Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium PCA (Derived From Amino Acid), Tocopheryl Acetate, Beta Carotene, Oleic Acid (Omega 9), Omega 3/6 (Camelina Sativa Seed Oil), Citrullus Lanatus (Kalahari Watermelon) Seed Oil, Ricinodendron Rautanenii (Manketti Oil), Adansonia Digitata (Baobab) Seed Oil, Mongongo (Schinziophyton Rautanenii Kernel) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive Oleaster) Fruit Oil, Panthenol, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A), Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Annatto (Roucou) Extract, Fragrance (Essential Oil Blend).
What to Look for in Leave In Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair
When selecting leave-in conditioners for low porosity hair, seek formulas that offer conditioning and lubrication without weighing the hair down. Here are a few key ingredients:
- Water
- Conditioning agents (i.e. Behentrimonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Methosulfate)
- Emollients (such as fatty alcohols)
- Extracts
- Humectants (i.e. Glycerin, Honey, and Sodium PCA)
- Plant-based Oils (i.e. Coconut, Olive, Argan, or Jojoba Oil)
If your hair has some damage, look for the following penetrating ingredients :
- Light-weight oils
- Amino acids
- Provitamins
- Panthenol
- Hydrolyzed proteins (i.e. silk, keratin, wheat, collagen)
- Peptides
- Cetrimonium bromide
- Cetrimonium chloride
It’s important to bear in mind that using too much product will only weigh down your hair, as low porosity hair absorbs less product than other hair types.
So, it is best to use a leave-in conditioner sparingly and avoid piling on too many products.
Leave in Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair: Quick Tips
Leave-in conditioners are ideal for people with low porosity hair since they offer lubrication, weight, and flexibility that result in soft strands.
Since products tend to sit on top of the hair strands and don’t seem to be doing much else, try these quick tips:
1. Start by using a low porosity shampoo and conditioner. If your hair needs extra TLC, follow up with a deep conditioner.
2. For best coverage, use leave-in conditioners while your hair is still wet. If you’re in the shower, apply it first and then quickly dip your head under the stream of water before bringing it back out again. Alternatively, pour some water over your hair to spread the product evenly throughout.
3. To really get the most out of your leave-in conditioner, use a wide tooth comb or a styling brush to evenly distribute it and make sure it reaches the ends of your hair.
4. If you don’t need a lot of leave-in conditioner, consider diluting and distributing it with a spray bottle or mixing it into a styling product, such as a curl cream or gel.
Leave-in conditioner is a versatile product that can be used on its own or blended with another to distribute it more evenly and save time.
For example, mixing it into a gel will allow you to complete your styling routine all at once. This is an excellent way to get the desired result without having too much product on your hair.
Should Low Porosity Hair Use a Leave-In Conditioner?
If your hair requires improved flexibility, softness, and lubrication, or if it is coarse, a leave-in conditioner may be beneficial for you. Nevertheless, not everyone needs to use one.
When it comes to low porosity hair, moisture is key. With its tightly dense cuticles, low porosity hair takes a while to absorb products or treatments completely. This can cause product build up on the surface of your strands due to its lack of absorption capacity.
Moreover, due to the abundant keratin composition in low porosity hair, adding more protein to it may be a bad idea. This can lead to protein overload and may cause your hair to become brittle and stiff.
For this reason, it is important to look for lightweight leave-in conditioners that moisturize and detangle the hair without weighing it down.
Understanding Porosity
Porosity is an essential concept to understand if you want to determine which moisturizers work best for your textured hair.
To put it simply, porosity relates to the ability of your hair to absorb moisture, water, color, or any liquid – all crucial factors in keeping hair healthy and hydrated.
Finding out what works for you may take some trial and error; however, this process is part of everyone’s unique hair journey!
Although porosity exists in three levels—high, normal, and low—most of us usually group our hair into two categories: high or low.
With high porosity hair, moisturizing products tend to evaporate quicker than usual, resulting in a dry and coarse texture that’s noticeable within the day. High porosity hair also has larger pores, allowing for more absorption.
Moisture is drawn in due to the raised cuticles of the shaft; however, like an opened door letting air out – the same applies to moisture leaving just as quickly. The strands take what they require from products but keeping them nourished can be a difficult feat.
Low porosity hair has tightly packed cuticles, resulting in smaller pores and reduced absorption ability. If products seem to sit on your hair rather than being absorbed, it’s likely you have low porosity hair. This is due to the closely aligned cuticles that prevent moisture and liquids from penetrating.
How Do You “Fix” Low Porosity Hair?
Some believe that those with low porosity hair should take steps to bring it to a medium porosity level. In all honesty, all hair types have some pros and cons.
Ultimately the best way to care for your individual needs is by getting acquainted with your own hair – let your hair be your guide!
With the right care, no matter your hair type, it will thrive and flourish! With that said, low porosity hair doesn’t need to be fixed – it just needs to be managed.
Take a look at my post about ingredients to avoid for low porosity hair.
