Gels for Low Porosity Hair and Key Ingredients
April 13, 2023
by
Verna Meachum
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Are you looking for gels for low porosity hair but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Seeking out that one perfect gel to meet your needs can be a difficult quest, particularly when you have low-porosity hair as not every product is suited for all types of strands.
To get the most out of your styling products, you should look for key ingredients when choosing a product for your hair type.
That’s what today’s blog is all about, so sit back and relax while we take you through all the key ingredients to look out for and which ones are most suitable for low-porosity hair.
Introduction
Hair gel is a product created to provide hair with texture, body, and volume while also aiding in styling.
Gels provide unparalleled hair styling that lasts a good amount of time, and they’re a hit with customers of every age group!
No matter what look you want to achieve, these products are your perfect choice for long-lasting style retention.
Different hair gels offer different levels of hold. These gel formulations are composed of several synthetic polymers, moisturizing ingredients, and thickening materials.1,2
Additionally, a variety of hair gels are necessary to meet the specific needs of people from different ethnic backgrounds with different hair types.
There is a vast disparity in the composition of hair between individuals. Notable distinctions include moisture levels, porosity, and curl pattern.
Porosity is a major issue for many customers when it comes to hair styling, posing an immense challenge.
So, let’s delve into the particulars of what low porosity hair is.
What Is Low-Porosity Hair?
Porosity for hair is a parameter to describe the nature of hair fiber and the extent of hair damage.
High-porosity hair indicates more damaged fibers due to higher pore density and pore volume. Whereas, low-porosity hair fibers have a relatively low extent of damage.
Individuals with low-porosity hair face a unique challenge when it comes to managing and styling their strands; formulators too find creating specifically tailored formulations for this type of fiber difficult.3
Low-porosity hair fibers are virgin, non-chemically treated resulting in a relatively low number of pores with low pore volume and less damage.
These hair fibers are more damaged towards the hair ends (tips) while they are healthy and normal towards the roots due to exposure to solar radiation, normal wear and tear, combing, brushing, etc.
Those with low-porosity hair necessitate specialized hair styling products that offer moderate moisture and a sufficient hold to maintain the desired style.
Choosing Hair Styling Gels for Low Porosity Hair
Low-porosity has a generally healthy shaft and the cuticles are almost in good condition and alignment.
Towards the tips, hair fibers may be broken and cuticles might not exist due to excessive brushing. Fortunately, they generally don’t experience much dryness and simply need to balance hair’s moisture level.
Crafting the ideal hair gel for low-porosity hair requires an intentional blend of specific ingredients.
For best results, the ideal concoction should contain:
● Styling or fixative polymer – low to medium molecular weight resin with good substantiation with fiber and hold.
● Thickening polymer to give a characteristic texture and viscosity.
● Moisturizing ingredients – to hydrate hair fibers, a common choice for glycerin or propylene glycol.
● Emollients – to lubricate the hair shaft and give a shiny look to hair, e.g. sunflower oil, shea butter.
● Fragrance.
Key Ingredients to Look For in Gels for Low Porosity Hair
● Styling Polymers
Polymers are the backbone of any hair styling gel and come in a variety of formulations. These synthetic polymers are designed to adhere to hair fibers, allowing you to style it exactly how you want without fear that it will fall limp within a certain period.
These polymers perform this fixative job by forming a fine polymeric film over the hair shaft. An ideal polymer should hold your hair fibers in place without fail but also dry quickly without leaving any flakes upon drying.
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) has been one of the first polymers used in hair styling gel. Unfortunately, it creates extreme flaking after drying and fails to maintain its style when exposed to high levels of humidity.4
If you’re searching for the ideal styling polymers to use on low-porosity hair fibers, opt for the following:
● Acrylates Copolymer
● Vinylpyrrolidone (VP)/vinyl acetate (VA) copolymer
● Polyquaternium – 11
● Polyquaternium – 69
The polymer should form a thin, even layer over the shaft that will dry rapidly to effectively “fix” hair fibers in place.
The evenness of film is vital for low-porosity hair fibers because of their low extent of damage and gradient damage level from roots to tips. This ensures that the hair fiber is equally and uniformly “fixed” all along the shaft.
Thickening Agents
Styling products for hair come in two variations: thickened transparent gels or fluid liquids. Gels are generally preferred and require a thickening agent to achieve the desired viscosity level, which may be either synthetic or natural polymers.
Carbomer is the ideal ingredient for creating hair gel, as it boasts high viscosity, superior transparency, and remarkable product stability.
On top of that, this powerful compound helps to improve style retention. Furthermore, it’s safe for use in personal care products which makes it a reliable choice amongst many manufacturers.
In addition, natural thickening agents such as Xanthan Gum can be used to create hair gels. It’s a great option because it offers good viscosity and product stability; however, its styling hold is not quite up to par.
Moisturizing Ingredients
Although low-porosity hair is virgin and non-chemically treated, it still needs moisture to maintain its vibrancy, natural outlook, and bounce.
Without the proper hydration, your hair will never have its desired style retention and would be difficult to manage.
Furthermore, those with low-porosity hair need to add water molecules to their strands to avoid split ends and breakage.
Hair styling gels that contain glycerin and propylene glycol are the ideal option to keep your hair looking its best.
Not only do both of these ingredients excel at enhancing hair’s moisture levels but they are cost-effective (low-cost ingredients).
New-generation moisturizing ingredients are also gaining attention. They are multifunctional and are more advantageous.5
Our favorite new-generation moisturizing ingredients for low-porosity hair gels are:
- Betaine – natural water binding molecule with high water retention capacity.
- Sodium or Zinc PCA – excellent moisturizer for the scalp and hair.
- Propanediol – yet another natural corn-derived moisturizing ingredient without any greasy or tacky feel ( a typical drawback of glycerin).
Emollients
Emollients are added to hair gel to impart fiber protection, lubrication, and conditioning. Low-porosity hair needs this emollience at its tips to address the problem of dryness and shield against cuticle damage.
Natural oils are the ideal choice due to their natural green origin and easy biodegradation.
Our favorite natural oils/butter for a gel formulation are:
- Coconut Oil
- Sunflower Oil
- Avocado Oil
- Olive Oil
- Shea Butter
Additives: Preservatives
To keep hair products fresh and increase their shelf-life, preservatives are essential in preventing the growth of potentially dangerous microbial organisms.
Some traditional preservatives may be harsh and may have a high toxicity. For example, isothiazolinones, DMDM hydantoin, and formaldehyde. Among them, formaldehyde is is a well-documented contact allergen and carcinogenic.
Fortunately, these preservatives have been proven to be safe when used in finished products at 0.2% levels or below – a level that regulatory limits will guarantee is respected. If you do not wish to have them in your products, you can opt for natural preservatives as listed below.
Opt for green substitutes in place of these preservatives, such as:
- Sodium Benzoate
- Potassium Sorbate
- Hexylene Glycol
Not only are these mild and gentle, but they also are easy to undergo biodegradation.
Additives: Fragrances
Most of the styling formulations contain synthetic fragrances which is a blend of lab-made organic volatile chemicals.
Natural essential oils provide a convenient replacement for synthetic fragrances and offer a natural aromatic scent. Peppermint, Clove, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary oil are good examples.
Furthermore, these products are natural, with a sustainable supply chain, and are biodegradable.
Should I Choose Protein or Protein-Free Gels?
Many styling gels are packed with proteins. Protein-rich products can help to make hair stronger, add volume and body, reduce breakage, and enhance shine. But these benefits are dependent on the type of protein used.
On the other hand, those with low-porosity hair don’t need extra protein in their styling products. But, it’s okay to have protein in gels for low porosity hair.
Proteins are excellent for moisturizing and conditioning low-porosity hair. To achieve the best results, opt for a low to moderate dosage of proteins, which will help improve the fiber quality, enhance the fiber moisture content and address the problem of split ends.
You can find a list of suitable proteins for low porosity hair in my blog – Best Proteins for Low Porosity Hair.
Top 10 Gels for Low Porosity Hair
Curl Keeper Original Liquid Styler
This gel will be your new go-to for stunning, effortless curls! Its water-based formula will never leave behind any product build-up, allowing you to use it on your precious curls every day.
Moreover, with its special formulation that gets reactivated by water, the results of this lightweight liquid styler last several days in all weather conditions – from desert heat to humid coastal air – without ever leaving a single frizz standing in sight.
Attention – this gel contains DMDM Hydantoin, so for those with allergies or dermatitis-related issues, please take caution.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, VP/VA Copolymer, Propylene glycol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Glycerin, DMDM Hydantoin, Oleth-20, Parfum, Polyquaternium-10, Fragrance (Amylcinnamyl Alcohol, Limonene, Linalool).
ECO Style Styling Gel with Olive Oil
This gel is infused with 100% pure olive oil to produce a weightless gel that leaves your hair healthy and radiant. The olive oil helps attract moisture to your hair while also aiding in its natural hydration process, all while providing an unbeatable hold. With this styling gel, you can achieve the desired look without compromising on health or shine.
Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Pvp, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate, Polysorbate 20, Tetrasodum Edta, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil), Fragrance (Parfum), Ci19140 Yellow 5.
If you have medium to thick curls, Spiralicious is the perfect product for your hair type. Its superior hold and definition will last days after a wash day while controlling frizz without glycerin or protein. This gel will provide fabulous control with no sacrifice in terms of strength and definition.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Polyquaternium-69, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Panthenol, Polyquaternium-11, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Alcohol.
Make Aussie Instant Freeze Sculpting Gel your go-to hair product for effortlessly styled and long-lasting curls, waves, or simple straight styles.
Not to mention its 20-hour hold that won’t be ruined by humidity! Plus the bonus of a subtle citrus scent – it’ll make you feel as if you’re on vacation no matter where in the world you are.
Best of all? This is PETA-certified cruelty-free!
Note – this gel contains DMDM Hydantoin, so for those with allergies or dermatitis-related issues, please take caution.
Ingredients: Water, Laureth-23, Polyquaternium- 4, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Ecklonia Radiata Extract, Fragrance, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Benzyl Alcohol, Acrylates/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Copolymer, Aminomethyl Propanol, DMDM Hydantoin, Acrylates Copolymer, Disodium EDTA.
MopTop Anti-Frizz Medium Hold Gel
This gel provides a strong hold and keeps frizz at bay, all while leaving your curls feeling smooth and soft to the touch. This specialized formula contains only beneficial ingredients like sea botanicals and honey – it’s water-soluble, silicone-free, paraben-free, and alcohol-free.
Ingredients: WATER, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, METHACRYLIC ACID/SODIUM ACRYLAMIDOMETHYL PROPANE SULFONATE COPOLYMER, SILK AMINO ACIDS, HYPNEA MUSCIFORMIS EXTRACT, GELIDIELLA ACEROSA EXTRACT, SARGASSUM FILIPENDULA EXTRACT, ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT, URTICA DIOICA (NETTLE) EXTRACT, ANTHEMIS NOBILIS (CHAMOMILE) FLOWER EXTRACT, SPIRULINA MAXIMA EXTRACT, PANTHENOL, SORBITOL, GLYCERIN, HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM HONEY, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, POLYQUATERNIUM-4, POLYQUATERNIUM-10, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, TETRASODIUM EDTA, PHENOXYETHANOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, FRAGRANCE.
Treat your curls to the ultimate definition and control with our Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly. Formulated with certified organic blueberry extract and pure castor oil, this nourishing jelly provides volume, frizz control, and beautiful bounce.
Ingredients: Water, Sorbitol, Polyacrylate-14, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Certified Organic Aloe Leaf Juice, Certified Organic Blueberry Leaf Extract, Keratin, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Silk Amino Acids, Panthenol, Certified Organic Shea Butter, Certified Organic Mango Seed Butter, Certified Organic Argan Oil, Certified Organic Evening Primrose, Jojoba Esters, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Fragrance, Citric Acid.
This luxurious gel is carefully crafted with a delectable blend of marshmallow and agave extracts, creating an indulgent fusion. Coconut and pomegranate oil serve as the foundation for this delightful concoction, which is smoothly balanced by botanical juices like seaweed and aloe vera.
Ingredients: Deionized Water, Pectin, Coco Nucifera (Coconut )Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Panthenol, Ricinus Communis (Caster) Seed Oil, Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract, Agave Americana Leaf Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail) Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Corn Starch, Xanthan Gum, Chondrus (Seaweed) Crispus, Polysorbate 20, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12), Phenoxyethanol (Optiphen Nd) Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum).
Mielle Organics Honey & Ginger Styling Gel
Crafted with certified organic honey, ginger, aloe extract and babassu oil, this formula is the perfect blend of nourishing ingredients. This gel is best for Types 3A to 4C natural hair.
Ingredients: Aqua (Water), *Glycerin, *Honey, *Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Acrylates Copolymer, *Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil, *Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Maltodextrin/VP Copolymer, Althea Offinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract, Pectin, Parfum (Fragrance), Zingiber Offinale (Ginger) Root Oil*, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol.*CERTIFIED ORGANIC INGREDIENTS.
Curls B Defined Curl Defining Gel
Formulated with organic Quinoa, our high-performance botanical gel offers a medium hold that works wonders on curls and twist-out styles. Use it to protect your hair while adding definition and strength.
Ingredients: Water, Sorbitol, Polyacrylate-14, Polysorbate 20, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Xanthan Gum, Fragrance, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Tetrasodium Gutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hydroxide, FD&C Blue 1.
CURLSMITH – Curl Defining Styling Soufflé
Get bouncy, juicy, and shiny curls with our all-natural vegan jelly that moisturizes your hair while defining it.
This super-strong hold souffle ensures a crunchy cast around the hair during drying to fight frizz and boost definition – but don’t worry! This is only temporary: once your hair is dry you can simply “scrunch” upwards to reveal soft results.
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Babassu Oil Polyglyceryl-4 Esters, Sorbitol, Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss), Fragrance (Parfum), Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Extract, Carapa Guaianensis (Andiroba) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Selaginella Lepidophylla (Resurrection Flower) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Leaf Extract, Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper) Seed Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glyceryl Undecylenate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Limonene, Linalool.*Organic Ingredient.
References
1. Corbett, J. F., The Chemistry of Hair-care Products. Journal of the Society of Dyers and Colourists 1976, 92 (8), 285-303.
2. Zviak, C., The Science of Hair Care. Taylor & Francis: 1986.
3. Hessefort, Y. Z.; Holland, B. T.; Cloud, R. W., True porosity measurement of hair: a new way to study hair damage mechanisms. J. Cosmet. Sci. 2008, 59 (4), 303.
4. Robbins, C. R., Chemical and physical behavior of human hair. 4th ed.; Springer-Verlag: New York, 2002.
5. Schueller, R.; Romanowski, P., Conditioning Agents for Hair and Skin. Taylor & Francis: 1999.
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