How to Take Care of Low Porosity Hair

Last Updated on October 5, 2023 by Verna Meachum

Understanding your hair’s porosity level is like getting the secret playbook for its optimal health and appearance. Low porosity hair has a tightly bound cuticle layer, making it challenging for moisture to penetrate. However, it may sound like a science experiment, but caring for low-porosity hair can be simple once you understand the basics.

To discover how to take care of low porosity hair, you’ll want to focus on a few essential steps:

1. Keep hair clean to prevent product buildup.
2. Condition and hydrate with water-based products.
3. Incorporate film-forming humectants for added moisture retention.
4. Use natural (penetrating) oils for lightweight lubrication.
5. Use heat during deep conditioning.
6. Minimize physical abrasion with gentle combing and brushing.
7. Protect against UV radiation and heat damage.
8. Periodically assess hair’s porosity level.

In collaboration with my hair scientist friend who holds a Ph.D. in cosmetic chemistry, we’ve combined our expertise to bring you science-backed tips on how to take care of low-porosity hair.

What is Low Porosity Hair?

Low porosity hair is characterized by a tightly sealed cuticle layer, which means it has fewer pores and a lower ability to absorb moisture. Unlike chemically treated or damaged hair, low porosity hair is often in its natural, virgin state and generally healthier near the roots.

However, the hair tends to become more damaged towards the tips due to factors like sun exposure, and frequent combing or brushing. This makes low-porosity hair uniquely challenging to manage, style, and formulate hair care products for.

While there’s no universal scale to assess hair porosity, a practical approach is to look at the hair’s overall condition and any recent treatments it’s undergone.

For example, if your hair is natural and hasn’t been chemically treated, it’s likely to have low porosity. On the other hand, hair that’s been chemically treated or excessively exposed to UV radiation typically exhibits high porosity (porous hair).

Low Porosity Characteristics

Understanding the characteristics of low-porosity hair is the first step to optimizing your hair care routine. With low-porosity hair, you’ll generally notice the following traits:

• The hair usually looks healthy overall.
• Minimal breakage occurs when force is applied or during combing.
• The hair feels smooth to the touch, except perhaps at the tips.
• The cuticle layer is intact.
• Minimal frizz.
• The hair remains relatively stable even when exposed to drastic changes in humidity.
• There’s a lower rate of product absorption, meaning your hair may not soak up oils or conditioners quickly.
• During the hair coloring process, the color application appears even and consistent.

By identifying these characteristics, you can better tailor your hair care regimen to suit the specific needs of your low porosity hair.

How to Identify Signs of Low Porosity Hair

Identifying low porosity hair often comes down to a few key indicators. Notably, low-porosity hair is generally virgin and free from chemical treatments. Here are some signs to look for:

1. Your hair ends are dry, even though the rest of the hair shaft appears smooth and well-maintained.
2. Hair tends to have a natural shine.
3. If water beads up on the surface of your hair instead of soaking in, this is often a sign of low porosity hair.
4. Low-porosity hair is more prone to product buildup because it has a harder time absorbing products.
5. You might find it challenging to effectively moisturize low-porosity hair, as products tend to sit on the hair rather than penetrate it.
6. Low porosity hair tends to take longer to dry as the cuticle doesn’t easily allow moisture in or out.
7. Because low-porosity hair struggles with moisture retention, it may lack elasticity and can be prone to breakage.
8. Some people use the float test (how to test for this is below), where a strand of clean hair is placed in a cup of water. Low-porosity hair will float because it doesn’t easily absorb water.

How to Conduct a Float Test for Determining Hair Porosity

While the float test isn’t foolproof, it offers a practical way to gauge your hair’s porosity level at home, especially when professional tests like gas adsorption aren’t readily accessible.

Think of it like a home pregnancy test; it’s not as accurate as a lab test, but it gives you a general idea, especially when you’re already experiencing related signs and symptoms.

Among various DIY methods discussed across blogs and online platforms, the float test stands out as one of the more sound and real-world relevant options.

The Float Test: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Collect a clean single strand of hair from your comb or brush. Try to grab strands of hair on your wash day.
2. Fill a glass of water (room-temperature warm water), ideally between 25-30°C, as this temperature range is optimal for assessing hair-wetting properties.
3. Gently place the hair strand into the water without disturbing the surface. Start a stopwatch immediately.
4. Observe how long it takes for the hair strand to sink.
5. Hair that sinks quickly indicates high porosity, while hair that floats for a long time suggests low porosity.
6. For a control, repeat the experiment using a strand of color-treated or bleached hair to observe differences in porosity.

By following this method, you can obtain a reasonable estimate of your hair’s porosity level, enabling you to adapt your hair care routine accordingly.

Tips for Caring for Low Porosity Hair

Low-porosity hair is vulnerable to various environmental and styling factors that can lead to damage. From heat styling to swimming pool chlorine and UV radiation, these elements can compromise the hair’s protein and lipid structure, making it fragile.

If neglected, low-porosity hair can transition to high-porosity hair, which comes with its own set of challenges.

To safeguard and take care of your low-porosity hair, consider the following specific tips to get the most out of your hair care routine:

Keep Hair Clean to Prevent Product Buildup

Low-porosity natural hair tends to have a reduced rate of product absorption, which can lead to unwanted buildup. Using a clarifying shampoo on your scalp and hair can effectively remove buildup, thereby enhancing your hair’s ability to absorb moisture.

Keep Hair Conditioned and Hydrated

Because low-porosity hair struggles to retain moisture, it’s crucial to keep it well-conditioned and hydrated. Opt for water-based conditioners and lightweight penetrating oils that won’t weigh your hair down but will help lock in the moisture.

Check out these blog posts on specific conditioners for low-porosity hair:

• 17 Best Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair
• 17 Best Leave in Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair
• Deep Conditioners for Low Porosity Hair: The Key Ingredients

Use Film-Forming Humectants

Incorporate film-forming humectants like aloe vera or flaxseed into your routine. These create a moisture-retaining layer over your hair, making it easier for low-porosity locks to hold onto the hydration they need.

Use Natural Oils for Lubrication

Light oils like jojoba oil, argan oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, and sweet almond oil can provide the lubrication your hair needs without making it feel weighed down. These oils are light enough for low-porosity hair and help improve flexibility and manageability.

Use Heat When Deep Conditioning

The tight cuticle layer in low-porosity hair makes it difficult for conditioners to penetrate. Utilizing heat, like a steamer while using a deep conditioner can lift up the cuticles, allowing for better moisture absorption. Consider using a heat cap or sitting under a hooded dryer during this process.

Avoid Excess Physical Abrasion

Excessive combing, brushing, or styling can be detrimental to low-porosity hair, particularly at the tips where the hair is most fragile. Opt for finger-detangling or using a wide-tooth comb to minimize breakage.

Protect Against UV Radiation and Heat Damage

The tips of low-porosity hair are more susceptible to damage from the sun and heat styling tools. Shield your hair with UV-protective products and use heat-protectant sprays when styling to maintain its health.

Limit Chemical Exposure

Steer clear of harsh chemicals as they can deplete the protein content in your hair and lead to fiber damage.

Periodically Assess Hair Porosity Level

Even if your hair currently has low porosity, factors like aging, chemical treatments, and environmental stressors can alter its porosity level over time. Regular assessments can help you adjust your hair care regimen as needed.

By focusing on these targeted tips, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining healthy, manageable low porosity hair.

How to Prevent Breakage in Low-Porosity Hair

Even though low-porosity hair often looks healthy and is usually not chemically treated, it can still be prone to breakage.

The tips of these hair strands may become rough or develop split ends due to heat exposure and sun damage. Rough handling, like aggressive combing on wet hair, can also contribute to breakage.

To minimize hair breakage, consider the following steps:

1. Be Gentle When Combing or Brushing Wet Hair: Wet hair is most fragile, so exercise caution when combing or brushing it.
2. Maintain a Consistent Hair Care Routine: Following a disciplined hair care regimen can go a long way in maintaining the overall health of your low-porosity hair.
3. Prioritize Cleanliness and Hydration: Keep your hair clean and well-hydrated to prevent it from becoming brittle and breaking.
4. Use Detangling Spray: Since combing is often a primary cause of breakage in low-porosity hair, use a detangling product on wet hair to reduce physical abrasion and prevent cuticle erosion.

For the best tips on how to grow low-porosity hair, check out my blog titled, “Uncover the Facts About How to Grow Low-Porosity Hair.”

How Often Should You Wash Low-Porosity Hair?

Keeping a clean scalp is the cornerstone of healthy hair, and it’s particularly crucial for those with low-porosity hair.

Washing your hair at least once a week not only prevents product buildup but also removes pollutants and other residues that can accumulate on the scalp. This is particularly important for Type 4 hair, which is more prone to dryness and breakage.

A consistent washing routine sets the foundation for better moisture absorption and optimal hair health. To ensure the best results, choose shampoos specifically formulated for your hair type. Check out my list of shampoos in my blog titled, “15 Shampoos for Low Porosity Hair: A Comprehensive Guide.”

Your cleansing routine should include:

1. A Clarifying Shampoo: This helps control buildup and effectively removes debris from both the scalp and hair strands.
2. A Mild, Hydrating Shampoo: Opt for a gentle shampoo that can also detangle low-porosity hair without stripping away essential lipids from the hair and scalp.

Should Low-Porosity Hair Stay Away From Proteins?

No! There’s no need to avoid protein treatments if you have low-porosity hair. Contrary to a common misconception, protein-based products can actually benefit low-porosity hair types.

Proteins are derived from natural sources and serve as multifaceted conditioning agents. They enhance your hair’s surface, add shine, and strengthen the strands.¹ Using protein treatments can be particularly beneficial after events that stress your hair, such as extensive brushing, combing, or heat styling.

For optimal results, it’s recommended to use protein treatments once a week. Stick to products that have a low protein concentration to balance the benefits without overloading your hair. This once-a-week regimen can go a long way in restoring the health and quality of your low-porosity hair.

To learn specifically what type of proteins work best for low-porosity hair, check out my blog titled, “Best Proteins for Low Porosity Hair.”

Should Low-Porosity Hair Use Steam When Deep Conditioning?

Absolutely, steam can be a game-changer for deep conditioning low-porosity hair. Studies show that applying heat through a steamer or using warm air over hair covered with a plastic cap can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your conditioning treatment.

The heat helps active ingredients penetrate more deeply into the hair shaft and allows cationic conditioning agents to better adhere to the hair’s surface.

Moreover, the heat energy can also speed up the “softening” process of polymers and proteins in your hair. This leads to better conditioning, quicker damage repair, and overall improved hair quality.²,³

Choosing the Right Products for Low-Porosity Hair

When it comes to selecting lightweight products for your low-porosity hair, it’s crucial to read ingredient lists and always conduct a patch test before applying anything to your entire scalp. To keep your hair at its best, consider the following hair care routine tailored for low-porosity hair:

1. Gentle Clarifying Shampoo: Use once a week to eliminate buildup.
2. Mild Hydrating Shampoo: Apply twice a week for balanced moisture.
3. Rinse-Off Hydrating Conditioner: Use twice a week, immediately after shampooing.
4. Lightweight Leave-In Conditioner: Apply daily to maintain moisture levels.
5. Natural Oil Blend: Use twice a week to nourish without weighing hair down.
6. Deep Hydrating Protein Treatment: Incorporate at least bi-weekly to strengthen and condition your hair.

Remember, your hair is unique, so feel free to adjust this routine based on your individual needs and responses to different products. You can find a comprehensive list of products:

• Curl Creams for Low Porosity Hair: Key Ingredients to Look Out For
• Gels for Low Porosity Hair and Key Ingredients
• A Complete Care Guide for Low Porosity Hair

FAQs for Caring for Low Porosity Hair

How Do I Moisturize Low-Porosity Hair Effectively?

To achieve optimal moisture levels in low-porosity hair, it’s essential to start with a clean slate. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup, followed by a gentle hydrating shampoo for balanced cleansing. Here’s a breakdown of an effective moisturizing routine:

1. Clarifying Shampoo: Use periodically to eliminate product residues and buildup.
2. Hydrating Shampoo: Opt for a gentle, moisture-balancing shampoo for regular use.
3. Light Rinse-Off Conditioner: Choose a conditioner that is easy to apply and has a low-to-medium viscosity to avoid weighing down your hair.
4. Leave-In Conditioner: Select one that is hydrating but lightweight, and rich in natural emollients.

Using a leave-in conditioner daily will help maintain the right moisture balance for low-porosity hair, ensuring that your locks stay healthy and well-nourished. Tailor these steps to your hair’s specific needs for the best results.

What is the Best Way to Treat Low-Porosity Hair?

To keep your low-porosity hair at its best, a disciplined and customized hair care regimen is key. Taking a strategic approach will help you maintain the integrity, shine, and natural texture of your hair. Lack of proper care can elevate the porosity level, leading to significant damage.

Here are some essentials to consider:

1. Avoid Product Overload: Using too much product can create buildup, affecting your hair’s health.
2. Choose Wisely: Opt for lightweight, hydrating products designed for low-porosity hair to ensure it receives the nutrients it needs without being weighed down.

What Should Low-Porosity Hair Avoid?

If you have low-porosity hair, certain practices and ingredients can actually do more harm than good. Here’s a quick rundown of what to avoid:

1. Over-Conditioning: While conditioning is important, less is often more. Using too much or too frequently can lead to buildup.
2. Heavy Polymers: Steer clear of high molecular weight synthetic polymers, as they can weigh down your hair and create residue.
3. Protein and Humectant Overload: Excessive use of proteins and humectants can lead to imbalances in your hair’s moisture levels.
4. Excessive Humectants: Be cautious with humectants like glycerin and propylene glycol, as using too much can have the opposite of the intended moisturizing effect.

For more in-depth information about the ingredients to avoid, check out my blog titled, “Ingredients to Avoid for Low Porosity Hair: A Comprehensive Guide.”

What is Low Porosity Hair Lacking?

A common misconception about low-porosity hair is that it doesn’t require much care or attention, largely because it often appears naturally healthy. This belief can lead to the misuse of products and improper care routines.

The market is saturated with products targeting “damaged,” “broken,” and “dry” hair, but options for natural, low-porosity hair are relatively limited. This lack of targeted solutions often leads consumers to use highly concentrated products not specifically designed for their hair type.

Moreover, in an attempt to provide extra hydration, conditioning, and emollience, some individuals use excessive amounts of product, which can result in undesirable effects like buildup and imbalance.

To achieve and maintain naturally glossy, full-bodied, and textured hair, it’s essential to accurately assess your hair’s porosity level. Tailoring a hair care regimen based on these needs is crucial for long-term health and vitality.

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