Good shampoo and conditioner for low porosity hair

Finding perfectly apt and suitable products for low porosity hair can be quite tricky as many of us aren't aware of what low porosity is and how to identify if our hair falls into that category. Simply put by a color expert and hairstylist, Sharon Spellman, "Hair porosity determines your hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture, as well as how oils pass in and out of the hair's cuticle.” Basically, the higher level of porosity leads to an increased level of exposure for your hair as well. 

Though low porosity hair is preferable compared to high porosity hair, there are still quite a few hair concerns that people with low porosity hair face. This article lays down easy guidelines and tips for people dealing with low porosity hair to make their hair care journey easier and more fun.

Table Of Contents

  1. What Is Low Porosity Hair?
  2. Hair Care Regimen For Low Porosity Locks. Choosing the Best Low Porosity Hair Products
  3. Low Porosity Hair Products: What To Avoid
  4. Buying Guide For Choosing A Shampoo For Low Porosity Hair

What Is Low Porosity Hair?

Low porosity hair is a condition in which the cuticles in your hair overlap and are tightly closed. No space between your hair cuticles makes it very difficult for the moisture to seep through to your hair shaft. Low porosity natural hair is mainly caused due to heredity and genetic factors. The absorption rate of low porosity hair is extremely low and any buildup only makes things worse. This is why a clarifying shampoo can help. But we'll get to this in a moment.

Good shampoo and conditioner for low porosity hair

There’s a lot of protein present in low porosity hair that tends to make it more dry and prone to hair breakage; thus, they require the right amount of moisture. As per Bridgette Hill, trichologist and colorist at Paul Labrecque Salon An Skincare Spa, “Low-porosity hair contains a fiber that has overlapping cuticles. A barrier is created by these overlapping cuticles that prevent moisture from penetrating the roots and shaft.”

Hair Care Regimen For Low Porosity Locks. Choosing the Best Low Porosity Hair Products

Different types of hair require different tactics when it comes to their care. Here is a hair care regimen that people with low porosity hair should follow. I've also listed the best hair care products that can make caring for your locks easier and more manageable. 

  • Shampoo: It’s really essential to pick an effective shampoo for low-porosity hair. A soothing clarifying shampoo formulated with organic and all-natural ingredients that penetrate deep and remove buildup residue purifying your scalp as well works for low porosity hair. The WOW Skin Science Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo works exceptionally well for low porosity hair by opening your cuticles and allowing the moisture to enter through. 
  • Conditioner: Along with a nourishing, clarifying shampoo, a good conditioner is a crucial element as well for low porosity hair. A lightweight conditioner that feels weightless on the scalp yet leaves your hair frizz, and grease-free is the one you must opt for. The conditioner that comes in the Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Pack by WOW Skin Science is an effective product that leaves your hair feeling fresh, smooth, and hydrated. 

Good shampoo and conditioner for low porosity hair

  • Hair Oil: Oiling is an essential step in the hair care regimen of people with low porosity hair. Hair experts and trichologists suggest using natural hair oils that provide an enhanced dose of moisture to your scalp. The WOW Skin Science 10-in-1 hair oil fills all the requirements of low porosity hair. The powerful blend of ten pure oils such as extra virgin olive oil, sweet almond oil, Moroccan argan oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, safflower oil, vitamin e, bhringraj extract, rosemary, and tea tree essential oils boosts the health of your hair and provides strength. This conditioning oil penetrates deep into your hair shaft and helps fight against frizz, grease, and several other hair care woes. 

Good shampoo and conditioner for low porosity hair

Low Porosity Hair Products: What To Avoid

Here’s a list of products that people with low-porosity hair must steer clear of:

  • Protein-infused products: Protein particles tend to block cuticles; thus, those who already suffer from stubborn cuticles should try and avoid conditioners and other hair care products enriched with proteins. 
  • Thick oil: As discussed above, lightweight and natural oils work well for low porosity hair. On the other hand, heavier oils might not absorb that well through your hair shaft and might make your hair more greasy without helping the cause.
  • Silicone products: Try to avoid using shampoo and other hair care products containing water-insoluble silicones as they tend to form a layer of residue. Prefer using gentle and mild products consisting of water-soluble silicones. 
  • Leave-in conditioners: The majority of leave-in conditioners are formulated with proteins that can trouble your hair. Instead, try to use a lightweight moisturizer infused with humectants. 

Buying Guide For Choosing A Shampoo For Low Porosity Hair

Choosing the best shampoo for low porosity hair from the dozens of options available in the market can get quite time-consuming. Here's a list of essential parameters to be taken care of before selecting a shampoo for low porosity hair:

  • Moisturizing ingredients: Since low-porosity hair is quite dry and prone to hair breakage, you must look for a clarifying shampoo infused with hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera, honey, glycerin, etc. Such ingredients penetrate deep into the hair shaft and add moisture to your scalp, keeping it healthy and hydrated. 
  • Minimal protein: The gentle cleansing shampoo must contain minimal to no protein so that your overlapped cuticles are not blocked. Though protein works exceptionally well for some hair types, it is definitely not suited for low-porosity locks. 
  • Sulfate-free: The shampoo should be completely free of sulfates as they are extremely harsh and will strip your scalp and hair from their natural oils and moisture. Thus, prefer to buy a shampoo free from sulfates. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is coconut oil bad for low porosity hair?

Yes, coconut hair is quite heavy, so it is not recommended for low porosity hair. 

2. Is rice water bad for low porosity hair?

Yes, rice water is rich in proteins that can coat your cuticles more and damage your low-porosity hair.

3. Is Aloe Vera good for low porosity hair?

Yes, aloe vera can work well on low porosity hair by enhancing the moisture content of your hair. 

Conclusion 

Dealing with low-porosity hair can feel like a forever battle that you’re struggling with. But hopefully, this article might make it a bit easier for you to find your way on how to deal with your low porosity hair and make it more manageable. Having shiny, healthy, and great natural hair hair can work exceptionally well to enhance your confidence and make you stand out in a crowd. 

Add the above-recommended hair care products to your regimen and make all heads turn your way with your ultra-shiny and glamorous tresses.

What shampoo is best for low porosity hair?

Have Low Porosity Hair?.
Bounce Curl Gentle Clarifying Shampoo. ... .
HairStory's New Wash (Deep) ... .
Alikay Naturals Moisturizing Black Soap Shampoo. ... .
Creme of Nature Argan Oil Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifying Rinse. ... .
SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo..

What Should low porosity hair avoid?

For low porosity hair, you'll want to stay away from protein treatment conditioners. Protein formulas can increase the risk of hair breakage since they tend to pull moisture out of the hair.

What products work best for low porosity hair?

20 Products You Absolutely Need For Low Porosity Hair.
Lottabody Moisturize Me Curl & Style Hair Milk. ... .
Crème of Nature Oil Moisturizer. ... .
Eden Bodyworks Curl Defining Creme. ... .
Maui Moisture Lightweight Hydration + Hibiscus Water Shampoo & Conditioner. ... .
Aphogee Curlific Moisture Rich Leave-In..

Does low porosity hair need shampoo?

Do not forgo shampoo. Low porosity hair is more prone to product buildup. Solely using cleansing conditioners or co-washing more than shampoo may not be the best regimen for low porosity hair.