Your hair porosity can be easily tested by dropping several hair strands into a glass of room-temperature water and seeing whether they float instead of sinking.
If your hair strands float in water, it could indicate low porosity hair. Soft porosity hair requires lightweight products to penetrate tight cuticles without causing product build-up. Some suitable products include film-forming humectants, flax seed gel, okra gel, aloe vera gel, and slippery elm extracts.
Lightweight Conditioners
Low-porosity hair tends to resist moisture absorption and reacts poorly to protein treatments. To increase moisture absorption, use lightweight conditioners instead of heavy oils. Opt for products that are free from silicone. Start with a sulfate-free shampoo and a light conditioner like Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner. Seal moisture with a silicone-free moisturizing hair oil like sunflower or grapeseed oil.
Oil Pre-Shampoo Treatments
Pre-shampoo oil treatments can provide additional moisture and help maintain hydration between washes. Look for products containing shea butter, such as Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner, or lighter options like Shea Moisture Argan Oil.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Low porosity hair requires moisturizing techniques to avoid build-up and promote adequate hydration. Limit protein treatments and use steam or warm water to open cuticles for better moisture absorption. Clarifying products are essential to remove build-up from styling products, conditioners, and hot tools. Choose deep conditioners without silicones to avoid sealing the cuticle and prevent moisture absorption.
Nourishing Hair Care Duo
Care for low-porosity hair should include products that penetrate cuticles and the core of the strands. Avoid products with silicones and heavy oils, and opt for those with water as the main ingredient. Regular cleansing with mild shampoos and deep conditioning treatments is necessary to prevent build-up. Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks for optimal hydration and strength.
