Low Porosity Hair: Do’s and Don’ts

Do you ever feel like your hair is stubborn and refuses to absorb moisture and hair products seem to just sit on top of it rather than soaking into it? Chances are that you might have low porosity hair. And guess what? That’s totally normal, especially for many of us with curly, coily, and textured hair.

But let’s first address the claims that low porosity hair is “bad hair”. Well, that is simply not true. It just needs a little extra TLC - and the right approach. So let’s break down the do’s and don’ts to help your low porosity hair thrive with moisture, definition and shine.

What is Low Porosity Hair?

Low porosity hair means the cuticles on your hair shaft are tightly packed, making it hard for moisture and products to penetrate. While that makes your hair naturally resistant to damage and protein loss, it also means you need to be strategic about your haircare routine.

DO's for Low Porosity Hair

1. Use warm water when washing: opens up the cuticle slightly so moisture can enter more easily.

2. Incorporate heat with deep conditioning: use a heat cap, steamer, or hooded dryer to help treatments penetrate the hair shaft.

3. Clarify regularly (1–2x/month): product buildup is common with low porosity hair. Use a clarifying or chelating shampoo to remove it.

4. Choose lightweight, water-based products: look for ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, honey or panthenol near the top of the ingredient list.

5. Use Humectants (in the right climate): in moderate humidity, humectants like glycerin and honey can help draw moisture into the hair.

6. Layer products using the LOC or LCO Method: experiment with which method your hair prefers (leave-in, oil, cream vs. leave-in, cream, oil).

7. Be gentle when detangling: use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers on damp, conditioned hair to avoid breakage.

8. Try Aloe Vera or Apple Cider Vinegar Rinses: these help with pH balance and allow the cuticle to better accept moisture.

DON'Ts for Low Porosity Hair

1. Don’t use too many heavy oils or butters: ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil can sit on top of the hair and cause buildup.

2. Don’t apply products to soaking wet hair: slightly damp hair absorbs product better; blot excess water with a T-shirt or microfiber towel.

3. Don’t skip heat during deep conditioning: without heat, the treatment may not fully penetrate the cuticle layer.

4. Don’t overdo protein treatments: low porosity hair is often protein-sensitive. Use protein treatments sparingly unless there's damage.

5. Don’t pile on product without clarifying: buildup makes it harder for your hair to absorb moisture and can lead to dryness or dullness.

6. Don’t assume More Product = More Moisture: focus on technique and product penetration, not just quantity.

7. Don’t skip patch testing new products: always test new products on a small section of hair to avoid unwanted reactions or buildup.

Final Thoughts: Love Your Low Porosity Hair!

When you understand how your hair works, everything changes. Low porosity hair doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a hair dryness or frizz life sentence - it just means your hair likes things a little differently.

So, stick to the right techniques, use the right ingredients and be patient. Healthy, beautiful and moisturized low porosity hair is 100% within reach.