The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation processDealing with low porosity hair can be a hassle sometimes, and finding the right products for your hair type can be even harder. That’s why we believe that you need to try out the best low porosity hair products and experience the difference for yourself. It is quite possible that you need to purchase products based on your porosity and not what looks good at the store.
Low porosity hair frequently requires specialized solutions to effectively moisturize and nurture the strands due to its tightly packed cuticles, which prevent moisture absorption. You've come to the best place if you're looking for the greatest low porosity hair products.
But one thing to note is that using a high-porosity shampoo on low-porosity hair can have its side effects. Expert Anna Misztela, a Board licensed Esthetician and Founder of Brand - ‘Beauty&Cutie’, explains the effect of high porosity shampoos on hair, saying, “High porosity shampoos typically contain heavier ingredients such as oils and butters, and as such they would be relatively ineffective for moisturizing low porosity hair, so you will continue to see the damage hallmarks of low porosity hair – dehydrated hair and frizzy ends.”
After our thorough research, we found that all you need to do to test the porosity of your hair is to use a glass of water before diving into the best products that we have tried and tested for you. They are listed below for you to get the long and lustrous hair that you’ve always dreamed of.
Our top picks
7 Best Low Porosity Hair Products
Addressing issues with low porosity hair is one of Aunt Jackie oil’s unique qualities. Low porosity hair frequently issues with dryness and dehydration because of its closely packed cuticles, which prevent moisture absorption. But this product takes on these problems head-on. Grapeseed and avocado are used to increase the porosity of the hair, which enhances moisture absorption and retention. Although it may be used as a standard conditioner, our team discovered through using this product that it can be used before shampooing to achieve better results.
Pros
- Contains essential oils
- Provides shine
- Improves scalps health
- Lightweight
- Balances porosity level
- Softens hair
Cons
- Greasy texture
Quick Tip
Divide your hair into sections before applying this product so that it can get evenly distributed. This will also allow you to style each curl individually.
2
Best in smoothing conditioner
tgin Rose Water Smoothing Leave-In Conditioner

Discover the transformational power of tgin’s rose water smoothing leave-in conditioner, which is created to revive lifeless hair and provide all-day hydration. The conditioner's main component is rose water, which is recognized for its many advantages. Rose water fortifies and strengthens your hair strands from root to tip, supporting overall hair health. It is rich in important vitamins A, C, D, E, and B3, hence, considered one of the best products for low porosity hair. Furthermore, rose water's antioxidants fight against the aging process of the scalp to give your hair a fresh start on a healthy base.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Moisturises hair
- Adds shine
- Sulphate free
- Paraben free
- Balances hair’s pH value
Cons
- Takes time to show results
3
Best in hair mousse
tgin Rose Water Defining Mousse for Natural hair

Discover the transforming style power of tgin’s rose water-defining mousse, a lightweight product that gives you touchably soft, defined curls without the trouble of hardness or flakiness. This mousse gives your hair a frizz-free grip while yet keeping it perfectly shaped and tamed. It is loaded with rose water and acai berries. Its formulation prevents product accumulation by giving your hair the right amount of hydration without weighing it down. This product stands out due to its dedication to employing premium, natural components. Sulfates, parabens, petrolatum, lanolin, and synthetic coloring are not included in this low porosity hair mousse.
Pros
- Reduces hair fall
- Sets up curls
- Frizz control
- Softens hair
- All-day shine
- Easy to use
Cons
- Medium hold on hair
4
Best for Curls
Ouidad The Curl Experts Curl Quencher Moisturizing Styling Gel

If taming unruly curls is your biggest haircare problem, Ouidad’s Curl Quencher Moisturizing Styling Gel is here to solve it. Vitamins A and E present in the formula help quench the thirst of dehydrated hair, making the tresses soft and bouncy. It also includes chamomile, wheat protein, amino acids, corn oils, arnica flower, and meadowfoam seed, which makes this a potent formula to repair hair damage, draw moisture into the hair, and strengthen hair cuticle. Its lighthold formula helps add definition to your curls, making them more manageable and easy to style. Tame flyaways and treat damaged hair with this nourishing styling gel by Ouidad.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Gentle formula
- Anti-frizz formula
- Makes hair soft
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
5
Best in hair gel
tgin Rose Water Defining Styling Gel for Natural hair

A game-changer for converting dull curls into vivid, bouncy locks is tgin’s incredibly efficient style gel. The brand is committed to utilizing the advantages of acai berries and rose water, creating a product that not only outlines curls but also offers necessary sustenance. Through our practical knowledge, omegas 3, 6, and 9 as well as vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and B3 promote the well-being of your hair shaft, supporting overall hair vitality. Your curls get a burst of vital nutrients with each usage, enabling them to flourish.
Pros
- Sets up curls
- Reduces frizziness
- Boosts hair volume
- All-day use
- Adds moisture
- For all hair type
Cons
- Not for looser curls
6
Best in hair mask
tgin Rose Water Hydrating Hair Mask

Renowned as one of the best products for low porosity hair, the hair mask has a high-end combination of proteins, good fats, and vitamins that will revive dry, damaged hair. This deeply penetrating hair mask removes tangles and knots while giving your hair the hydration and suppleness it needs. The hair mask stands out due to its dedication to openness and high-quality products. It doesn't include animal testing, sulfates, parabens, petrolatum, lanolin, artificial colors, or petrolatum. tgin is specially made to offer little buildup, full definition, and lightweight moisture. All hair types have praised this collection, but those with low porosity hair have found it to be very helpful.
Pros
- Moisturizing elements
- Protects hair
- Revitalizes strands
- Softens curls
- Repairs damaged hair
- Untangles knots
Cons
- Faint smell
7
Best in detanglers
tgin Quench 3-in-1 Co-Wash Conditioner and Detangler

With tgin Moisturising Co-Wash, wave goodbye to dry hair and hello to silky, moisturized curls. This simple solution is a game-changer because it gives your hair the ideal amount of hydration and antioxidant protection. Additionally to enhancing manageability and taming frizz, it does wonders for transforming dry, brittle hair into soft, silky, and healthy locks. When time is of the essence, this time-saving co-wash can offer you a rapid cleanse and condition. It allows you to wash and condition your hair in a single step by combining the moisturizing and cleaning ingredients of conditioners and regular shampoos.
Pros
- Contains essential vitamins and oils
- Restores moisture
- Manages hair softness
- Lightweight
- Prevents split ends
- Promotes healthy hair growth
Cons
- Not for long day usage
8
Best in nourishment
SheaMoisture Low Porosity Protein-Free Set

With the Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, indulge in the best hydrating treatment for your low-porosity, water-resistant hair. Definitely one of the finest low porosity curly hair products, the potent combination is made to moisturize your hair, reduce buildup, and restore shine, leaving your locks feeling smooth, balanced, and renewed. The package does wonders to smooth and moisturize your hair thanks to a mix of nutritious ingredients including Baobab Oil, Tea Tree Oil, and Shea Butter. This hair care product improves manageability, making it simpler to style and manage your hair.
Pros
- Gentle cleaning
- Deep nourishment
- Hydrates
- Paraben-free
- Lightweight
- For sensitive hair
Cons
- Difficult to detangle
9
JESSICURL Deep Conditioning Treatment

Treat your curls to some nourishing goodness with JESSICURL's Deep Conditioning Treatment. If you have hair that's very dry and unruly, this product will get the job done! It's infused with cocoa butter and Shea butter, making it the creamiest dose of hydration ever. You'll be left with super-defined curls that are free from frizz! Plus, it also contains no sulfates and silicones, while being cruelty-free at the some time, making it a must-have for curly girlies.
Pros
- Makes the hair soft
- Restores dull hair
- Lightweight formula
- Pleasant scent
- Gluten-free
- Vegan formula
- Suitable for thick hair
Cons
- Not suitable for very fine hair
10
Carol’s Daughter ALMOND MILK ulta-nourishing hair mask

Bring your curls back to life with the Carol's Daughter Almond Milk Ultra-nourishing Mask. This marvelous blend is formulated for curly and over-processed hair and has the power to revive and soften curls that are dry and damaged. The formula is infused with natural ingredients such as sweet almond oil, aloe, shea butter, and proteins. Your damaged hair woes will become a worry of the past, as this brand is her here to give your hair the tender loving care of a mother's touch.
Pros
- Repairs damaged hair
- Promotes hair growth
- Softens the hair
- Formulated with natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Designed for curly hair
Cons
- Not travel-friendly
11
MIELLE Mongongo Oil Hydrating Conditioner

Get those soft and silky locks that you've always dreamed of with MIELLE's Mongongo Oil Hydrating Conditioner. Crafted for those who have protein-sensitive hair, this creamy formula effectively hydrates your locks, leaving them vibrant and bouncy after every wash. Additionally, it can be used on all hair types, as it nourishes your mane from root to tip. Go ahead, revel in your curls, and celebrate your natural beauty with the best hair yet.
Pros
- Value for the price
- Strengthens the hair
- Free from harsh chemicals
- Repairs damaged strands
- Creamy texture
- Generous size
Cons
- The scent may not be very pleasant
What is Low Porosity Hair?
People with low porosity hair have a tight outer layer on their strands that are resistant to moisture. The cuticles are very tight and they don't allow water in easily. This may allow product buildup to occur while also not allowing conditioners to get fully absorbed. Individuals with this hair type struggle a lot with their hair being dry, becaus moisture never gets locked in. In this case, warm water can open up the cuticles a biy more, allowing lightweight moisture to seep in.
What Causes Low Porosity Hair?
There are a few reasons why you may have low porosity hair, the following are some of them:
1. It may be genetical and inherited from your family.
2. Tight curls that make moisture harder to get in.
3. Overuse of heat and chemicals on the hair.
4. Product buildup, especially silicones.
5. Frequent use of hard water.
How to Know if You Have Low Porosity Hair?
The following are a few ways to check your hair porosity. Check for these signs:
1. Water and haircare prodcuts tend to sit on your hair instead of getting absorbed.
2. Put your hair into a glass of water and check to see if it floats or sinks. If it floats, it's liekly low porosity.
3. If your fingers slide easily along strands of hair all the way from root to tip, then it may be because of low porosity.
4. If you've noticed that your hair struggles in humid conditions, this could be another sign of low porosity.
5. Low porosity hair is known to resist chemical treatments while also being less adaptive to heat styling.
What to Look For When Buying the Best Low Porosity Hair Products?
There are a number of important aspects to take into account when purchasing the best low porosity hair products to make sure you select the best options for your hair type. Here are some critical indicators to watch out for:
1. Moisture Absorbent Elements
Hair with low porosity typically has a hard time absorbing moisture. Look for items that are specially designed to offer moisture retention and deep hydration. Low porosity hair benefits from key ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and humectants like honey or hyaluronic acid for drawing and holding onto moisture. Fatty acids also work great to retain the moisture of your locks.
2. Presence of Protein
Protein helps to strengthen the hair, but too much protein can make low-porosity hair stiff and brittle. To keep your hair's elasticity and strength without overdosing on it, look for solutions with a balanced level of protein. For hair with low porosity, hydrolyzed proteins or amino acids are advantageous.
3. Ingredients Present
Avoid products with harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, and others that can rob your hair of its own oils and make it even drier. Choose goods with healthy and natural components as opposed to those that include these substances. Try to look for moisture milk as an ingredient to retain hydration. Sweet almond oil, coconut oil and olive oil are great ingredients to promote high-quality hair fibre and healthy hair.
4. pH Balance Ability
Hair with little porosity frequently has a pH level that is more alkaline, which can cause dryness and frizz. To assist in restoring and preserving the ideal pH balance of your hair, use items that are acidity-balanced or slightly acidic. Look for chemicals that can help maintain the pH balance of your hair, such as citric acid or apple cider vinegar.
5. Feel on the Hair
Avoid using products that are oily or heavy since they might weigh down your hair and produce buildup. Look for solutions that are light and won't make your hair feel greasy or thick. Argan oil and jojoba oil are both fantastic choices for providing hydration to your hair without weighing it down.
What Are Some Ways to Care for Low Porosity Hair?
Low-porosity hair needs special care to guarantee the best possible retention of moisture and hair quality. The following are crucial pointers for taking care of low-porosity hair as per our expertise:
Sharing a few hacks to cater to low porosity hair, our contributor Anna Misztela, says, “The problem with low porosity hair is that the hair cuticles are so tightly packed around the hair shaft, it is difficult for the shaft to be properly moisturized. The penetration of water is difficult. The result can be dehydrated hair and frizzy ends. Therefore, it is suggested to use products with lightweight oils that will have a better chance of penetrating through the tightly packed hair cuticles. Almond and argan oils are two good examples of lightweight oils. And for the same reasons, you would want to avoid products with butters and creams. To try to open up the cuticles a bit more, you can apply heat to your hair with warm water prior to applying a deep conditioner. And if you can, use steam. It is even more effective than warm water and can increase the effectiveness of your conditioning and moisturizing products. Finally, you can always try to moisturize your hair from the inside, so be sure to drink plenty of water.”
1. Conditioning of Hair
Low porosity hair needs frequent deep conditioning procedures. Select deep conditioners designed especially for hair with low porosity, and use heat throughout the treatment to aid in opening the hair cuticles and facilitating efficient conditioner penetration. Add a hair steamer to this routine and you’ll see a significant change in hair loss.
2. Usage of Lukewarm Water
When washing your hair, use tepid or lukewarm water rather than boiling water. The hair cuticles can be raised by hot water, which makes it harder for moisture to enter the hair shaft. To protect the cuticles and improve gloss, rinse with lukewarm water after washing.
3. Gentle Cleaning
Prevent stripping your hair of its natural oils by using sulfate-free shampoos or co-washing, which involves using a conditioner to rinse your hair. Harsh cleaners may additionally impede moisture absorption while rendering low-porosity hair feel dry.
4. Moisturizing
Lightweight moisturizers that can efficiently permeate the hair shaft are required for low-porosity hair. To lock in the moisture, use a mild oil or butter after applying water-based moisturizers or leave-in conditioners to damp hair. Low porosity hair can be moisturized using the "L.O.C." (liquid, oil, cream) or "L.C.O." (liquid, cream, oil) approaches.
5. Deep Cleansing
Low-porosity hair is more susceptible to accumulation and can easily become weighted down. Use products minimally, and stay away from heavy butter and oils that could sit on the surface of your hair. Cleanse your hair every so often to get rid of product buildup and residue.
Conclusion
Finding the best low porosity hair products is crucial for those who want to nurture and preserve their particular hair type. Low porosity hair may flourish with the appropriate products, showing its real beauty and potential. People may make sure that their hair gets the attention it needs by concentrating on important variables including moisture-rich procedures, ultralight products, pH balance, protein equilibrium, heat protection, and preventing harsh substances.
Treating high porosity hair is drastically different than that of low porosity hair. Keep in mind that taking care of low-porosity hair is an endeavor that calls for tolerance, reliability, and an eagerness to discover new things. Embrace the beauty of your own hair type, accept it, and benefit from the transformational abilities of the greatest hair products for low porosity.
Contributor: Anna Misztela, Board licensed Esthetician, Founder of Brand Beauty&Cutie
FAQ's
What products work best with low porosity hair?
Moisturizing shampoos, deep-conditioners or leave-in conditioners, hair oil, and gels work best for low porosity hair types.
What is the best ingredient for low porosity hair?
Some of the best ingredients for low porosity hair are shea butter, rose water, coconut, tea tree, argan oil, honey, and spearmint. These shampoos thoroughly wash hair while gently eliminating all buildup and fortifying the hair to prevent breakage.
What not to use on low porosity hair?
Remember to not use heavy oils and silicon-based products as they create barriers and coatings on the strands, making it difficult for the hair to retain moisture.
Which serum is good for low porosity hair?
Look out for hair serums that contain the nutritional benefits of argan oil, jojoba oil, and grapeseed oil.
Is henna good for low porosity hair?
Hair that is particularly absorbent or highly porous responds well to henna. Hair with low porosity could not accept the color well.
Why Trust Pinkvilla
Alvira, the author is a budding journalist and a hair care expert. She believes that using products suiting your hair type does more good than bad. It is after thorough research that she has enlisted products that are the best low porosity hair products.
Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!
Author BIO
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for hairstyling, Alvira is a certified Hair Expert who brings the latest tre More
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