8 Rules for Low Porosity Hair Care

Caring for low porosity hair is a bit tricky. But knowing its special needs is the first step towards your improved hair. Moisture and selecting proper hair care products.

In order to care for your low porosity hair, you need an individual hair care routine. The following are 8 important rules. They will enhance the health of your hair and hold moisture.

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Key Takeaways

• Understand the characteristics of low porosity hair
• Learn to improve moisture retention
• Find the best products for low porosity hair
• Develop your own hair care routine
• Prevent heat damage and maintain healthy hair

What Is Low Porosity Hair?

Hair porosity determines how well your hair can soak up moisture and nutrients. It is essential to understand your hair’s porosity in order to identify the appropriate hair care. Your hair will be better at soaking up and holding on to moisture. 

Learning about Hair Porosity Levels

Hair porosity can be low or high. Low porosity hair possesses closely cut cuticles. This is hard for moisture to penetrate. Knowing your hair’s porosity guarantees that you use the right products and methods.

Characteristics of Low Porosity Hair

Low porosity hair is having difficulty with absorbing moisture and so becomes dry and brittle. It looks dull and does not bounce back. The right products and techniques can improve its texture and look.

Curly Girl Method

Low Porosity Hair Oils

How to Test Your Hair Porosity at Home

You may also check your hair porosity at home through a simple test. Simply place a single drop of water on a strand of hair and see how fast it absorbs. If it takes long or stays on top, you likely have low porosity hair.

8 Rules for Low Porosity Hair Care

1. Use Warm Water to Wash Your Hair
2. Apply Lightweight, Water-Based Products
3. Always Use Heat When Deep Conditioning
4. Avoid Protein Overload
5. Clarify Regularly to Remove Build-Up
6. Moisturize Damp, Not Wet, Hair
7. Use the LCO Method for Sealing Moisture
8. Be Patient and Consistent with Your Routine

1. Use Warm Water to Wash Your Hair

Low porosity hair indicates that the cuticles are closed tightly, so it is harder for moisture to enter. Washing your hair in warm (not hot) water will slightly open the cuticle layer and enable moisture to get through more readily.

Warm Water Rinse Before Shampooing

Start by rinsing your hair with warm water for a couple of minutes before applying any shampoo. This softly opens the hair cuticles and prepares your strands to receive the cleansing and moisturizing products more effectively.

Warm Water Shampoo Application

Mix the shampoo with warm water in your hands prior to massaging it into your scalp. This allows the shampoo to spread more evenly and for cuticles to remain open for a longer period to allow for a deeper clean.

Warm Water Soaking Method

Soak your hair in a sink or bowl of warm water for 2–5 minutes before your wash routine. Soaking can help to hydrate the hair and loosen buildup, making it easier to cleanse and moisturize.

Warm Water with Steam (Shower Method)

Washing your hair under a hot shower is a great way of introducing heat and moisture. The steam automatically opens the cuticle, making your hair more receptive to product and treatments used on your wash day.

Warm Towel Wrap Pre-Wash

Wrap your hair in a warm, damp towel before washing. This method is gentle and allows your hair to gradually warm up, especially if you’re sensitive to direct heat or have a sensitive scalp.

Warm Water During Deep Conditioning Prep

After shampooing, rinse with warm water to keep the cuticles open before applying deep conditioner. This ensures your treatment penetrates more effectively and delivers better results.

Alternating Warm and Cool Water

Use warm water to wash and rinse out shampoo and conditioner, then finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticles. This helps lock in the moisture you’ve just added, especially helpful for low porosity hair.

Filtered Warm Water Option

If your tap water is hard or full of minerals, consider using a shower filter with warm water. This reduces mineral buildup and prevents your hair from becoming coated or resistant to moisture over time.

2. Apply Lightweight, Water-Based Products

Heavy creams and oils will simply sit atop low porosity hair. Use light, water-based leave-ins and moisturizers that have a greater opportunity to penetrate the hair shaft.

Water-Based Leave-In Conditioners

These are a necessity for low porosity hair because they are lightweight and can be absorbed easily. Choose leave-ins whose first ingredient is water. They provide soothing moisture without build-up or weighing the hair down.

Moisturizing Sprays or Mists

These light spritzes are perfect to revive curls or give a touch of moisture in between wash days. They usually contain water, humectants like glycerin or aloe vera, and a touch of light oil for softness.

Hydrating Serums

Water-based, silicone-free hair serums that are specifically for moisture (and not frizz control-only or shine-only) can be fantastic if used. These glide on easily and add softness without heaviness.

Aloe Vera Gel or Juice

True aloe vera is water-based in composition and high in nutrients. It can be applied as a mild moisturizer, scalp therapy, or even mixed into your DIY hair spray for added moisture and smoothness.

Floral or Botanical Waters

Rose water, lavender water, and plant waters are extremely light and hydrating to low porosity hair. They provide a natural shot of moisture, soothe the scalp, and leave a pleasant scent without weighing down the hair.

Lightweight Milks or Lotions

Milks for the hair are lighter than creams and best for softening and moisturizing low porosity hair. Use one that is more watery in texture to allow for deeper penetration.

DIY Water-Based Mixes

You can prepare your own moisturizing spritz using distilled water, a few drops of essential oil, aloe vera juice, and glycerin. This do-it-yourself concoction allows you to regulate the ingredients and tailor it to your hair needs.

Light Liquid Moisturizers with Humectants

Humectants like glycerin, honey, or panthenol are components of products that draw moisture into your hair. They function optimally in water-based products and moisturize low porosity hair better when applied at moderate humidity levels.

3. Always Use Heat When Deep Conditioning

Deep conditioning is important, but for low porosity hair, heat is a must. Use a steamer, heat cap, or even a warm towel to help the product penetrate deeply and nourish the hair from the inside out.

Hooded Dryer

This is the classic method you’ll receive in salons. You’re seated underneath a dome dryer with warm air blowing all over your head. It gives a uniform temperature, and the deep conditioner will penetrate every strand.

Best for: People with low-porosity hair or very textured hair who need a more intense treatment.

Steamer

Hair steamers are becoming increasingly popular with each day, especially on natural hair. Unlike dry heat, a steamer uses warm steam to penetrate the hair to moisturize and lift the cuticle. Not only does the steam help the conditioner penetrate deeper, but it also leaves behind moisture.

Best for: Dry, breakage-prone, or damaged hair that requires moisture.

Thermal Heat Cap

This is a microwaveable, cordless cap that is full of flaxseeds or gel. You microwave it, place it atop a plastic cap, and you’re set. It’s a convenient, effective method of having your deep conditioning if you don’t want to be plugged in or hooked up to something.

Perfect for: At home, you can deep condition while still having the freedom to walk around.

Hot Towel Wrap

If you don’t have fancy gear, don’t stress. You can soak a towel in hot water, wring it out, and wrap it around your head over a plastic cap. The heat isn’t as sustained, but it works.

Best for: Frugal individuals or those looking for a fast, simple solution.

Body Heat with Plastic Cap

This method uses your own body heat. You apply the conditioner, cover your hair with a plastic cap, and wait. It’s the most gentle form of heat and works best if you leave the treatment in for an extended period of time — e.g., 30 minutes to an hour.

Best for: Sensitive scalps or those avoiding outer heat.

Why Heat Plays the Winner

Using heat in deep conditioning isn’t an extra step — it’s what makes the process work. Without heat, the hair cuticle is closed, and all those moisturizing actives get left on the surface of the hair instead of penetrating in where they’re needed. Heat helps:

• Drive the product deeper in
• Create greater moisture lock
• Make the hair softer and easier to handle
• Reduce frizz and breakage

4. Avoid Protein Overload

Low porosity hair generally does not need a high amount of protein as it already contains tightly bound, resistant cuticles. Protein treatments should be used only sparingly because overuse can cause dryness and brittleness.

Know Your Hair Type and Needs

Not all hairs need the same amount of protein. Fine, damaged hair that is processed may benefit from a regular protein treatment, while coarse, low-porosity hair will be overwhelmed by excess protein. Before adding protein-rich products, find out what your hair actually needs.

Tip: When your hair is hard, crunchy, or simply breaks after treatment use — it’s probably had too much protein.

Read Product Labels Carefully

Many products, especially those labeled “strengthening,” “repairing,” or “fortifying” contain protein. Some proteins to be aware of include keratin, wheat protein, soy protein, silk protein, and collagen. While such products are a good idea in moderation, using a combination of multiple protein-contain products can ultimately contribute to overload.

Tip: Alternate protein products with moisture products to maintain balance.

Avoid Too Many Protein Treatment

Protein treatments are wonderful tools, but they shouldn’t be done weekly — except if your hair is really damaged. Too frequent full-strength protein masks or reconstructors can unbalance the moisture-protein ratio.

Rule of thumb: Use a protein treatment no more than once every 4 to 6 weeks, except if your stylist advises otherwise.

Balance With Moisture

Healthy hair is all about balance. If you’re using a product with protein, pair it with a deep moisturizer. Moisture keeps the hair flexible and soft, while protein gives it strength. Too much of one without the other creates imbalance — and that’s where trouble starts.

Tip: Incorporate deep conditioners, leave-ins, or oils that focus solely on hydration between protein treatments.

Pay Attention to How Your Hair Responds

Your hair is talking to you — not with words, but with texture and feel. When your hair suddenly gets stiff, more breakable, or uncurls, give protein products a break. Most often, all it takes to bring your hair back to life is adding moisture.

Tip: A quick trim and moisture deep treatment can reverse slight protein overload.

Don’t Use Protein on Healthy, Strong Hair

If your hair isn’t damaged, don’t force protein treatments into your routine “just because.” Protein is meant to repair — not maintain — so overusing it when your hair doesn’t need it can actually weaken it.

Think of protein like medicine: use it when you’re injured, not when you’re healthy.

5. Clarify Regularly to Remove Build-Up

Product build-up is common with low porosity hair because most products accumulate on the surface. Use a clarifying shampoo or apple cider vinegar rinse once or twice a month to wash your scalp and tresses

Clarifying Shampoo

What it does: A type of special shampoo that eliminates product build-up, oils, and grime. It is stronger than your usual shampoo.

When to use it: Every 2–4 weeks, depending on how many products you’re using or how oily your scalp becomes.

Best for: Individuals who use a lot of styling products, dry shampoo, or live in hard-water areas.

Tip: Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner or deep treatment — clarifying shampoos can be drying if used too often.

Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

What it is: A natural way to clarify with diluted apple cider vinegar (usually mixed with water in a 1:3 dilution).

What it does: Balances out scalp pH and breaks down residue gently.

When to use it: Every few weeks or as needed when your hair is coated or drab.

Best for: Natural hair, curly hair, or anyone who wants a gentle, non-stripping option.

Tip: Rinse really well — the vinegar smell vanishes once your hair is dry.

Clay Treatments (e.g., Bentonite Clay)

What it is: Cleansing treatment that draws out impurities from scalp and hair using natural clay.

When to use it: Every 4–6 weeks. It’s a spa day for your scalp and hair.

Best for: Those dealing with too much build-up, scalp issues, or dryness.

Tip: Mix clay and water or apple cider vinegar to create a smooth paste. Use evenly, leave on, and rinse.

Sulfate Shampoos (Occasional Use)

What it is: Traditional shampoos with sulfates like SLS or SLES — known for deep-cleaning power.

When to use it: Those occasional times when other clarifying efforts aren’t seeming to work.

Best for: Eliminating excess build-up or refreshing hair after a chlorine swim.

Tip: Use sparingly, and always follow with aggressive hydrating. These shampoos strip natural oils.

Homemade Baking Soda Scrub

What it is: Baking soda and water paste that lightly scrubs and eliminates buildup from the scalp.

When to use it: Rarely — maybe every few months. It’s very harsh and drying.

Best for: Emergency clarifying or severe buildup removal (e.g., silicones or gels).

Tip: Don’t rub hard. Baking soda is abrasive and can damage the scalp or hair shaft if applied too heavily.

Why Clarifying Is Important

Clarifying your hair on a regular basis is good for:

• Restores volume and bounce
• Prevents itchy scalp or dandruff from buildup
• Boosts product absorption and styling results
• Makes shine and softness sparkle
• Keeps healthy and clean scalp

6. Moisturize Damp, Not Wet, Hair

Applying moisturizers to damp hair (not soaking) allows more product to absorb. Gently blot out excess water with a towel before applying your leave-ins or creams.

Leave-In Conditioner on Damp Hair

What it is: A lightweight conditioner designed to stay in your hair and provide continuous moisture throughout the day.

Why it works on damp hair: If your hair is damp but not soaking wet, the cuticle is still ajar enough for the product to get in and moisturize the hair shaft. If your hair is soaking wet, the product will simply slide off with the water.

Best for: Daily use on natural, curly, or chemically processed hair that needs constant moisture.

Cream-Based Moisturizers

What they are: Thicker than leave-ins, they’re rich creams that soften and condition hair completely.

Why it works on damp hair: Damp hair allows the product to spread more evenly without thinning. It also traps in the water already in your hair, keeping your hair more damp.

Best for: Dry, thick, or coarse hair that frizzes or breaks easily.

LOC or LCO Method (Liquid-Oil-Cream / Liquid-Cream-Oil)

What it is: A layering system to lock in water in texturized hair.

• Liquid (usually water or a leave-in with water as the base)
• Oil (to seal in the water)
• Cream (to moisturize and give longer-lasting moisture)

Why it works on wet hair: Each layer performs optimally when the hair has absorbed just enough water so that it is moisturized, but not so much that the oils and creams cannot stick.

Best for: Curly and natural hair types, particularly 3A to 4C textures.

Hydrating Sprays or Mists

What they are: Water-based sprays that are light and often formulated in a fine spray or mist for easy penetration between wash days.

Why it works on damp hair: When applied to already damp hair, it allows for rehydration of the strands without clogging them up or creating too much product buildup.

Best for: Low-porosity or fine hair that doesn’t require heavy creams but still requires a moisture boost.

Oil Sealants

What they are: Natural oils like jojoba, argan, olive, or castor oil that lock in moisture after washing with water or leave-in products.

Why it works on damp hair: Oils won’t moisturize by themselves — they lock in the existing moisture. Apply them when your hair is wet to lock in water in the hair shaft before it can evaporate.

Best for: Any hair type, especially in dry or chilly weather.

Why Not Wet Hair?

Applying moisturizers to soaking wet hair seems like a wonderful plan — more water, more moisture, right? Incorrect.

• This is why damp is preferable to wet:
• Too much water, and that dilutes the products, making them less effective.
• Water creates a barrier and makes creams and oils run off.

• Soaked hair is wet enough that it’s prepared to hold the moisture you’re putting on.

7. Use the LCO Method for Sealing Moisture

The LCO (Liquid, Cream, Oil) method works for low porosity hair. Start with a water-based leave-in, followed by a light cream, and seal with a light oil to retain moisture.

Lightweight LCO for Fine or Low-Porosity Hair

• Liquid: A light, water-based leave-in spray
• Cream: A light moisturizing lotion (aloe vera-based or glycerin-based)
• Oil: A light oil like argan or jojoba

Why it works: Fine or low-porosity hair is easily weighed down. Light products seal moisture in without making your hair limp or greasy.

Best for: Straight, wavy, or fine-textured curls that still need moisture but can’t handle heavy layering.

Rich LCO for Thick, High-Porosity Hair

• Liquid: Simple water or a moisturizing leave-in conditioner
• Cream: A dense butter or cream (castor cream or shea butter-based)
• Oil: A heavier oil like olive oil or castor oil

Why it works: High-porosity hair absorbs moisture but loses it just as fast. Thicker oils and creams help seal in that moisture and keep frizz and dryness out.

Best for: 3C to 4C hair types, or damaged/chemically processed hair.

Herbal or Natural LCO for Minimalist Hair Care

• Liquid: Rose water or aloe vera juice
• Cream: Homemade shea butter and coconut milk mix
• Oil: Natural oils like grapeseed or sweet almond

Why it works: This is ideal for those who want to stick to natural ingredients and not use synthetic fragrance, silicones, or preservatives.

Best for: Sensitive scalps, natural lifestyles, or low-product routines.

Quick-Use LCO for Busy Schedules

• Liquid: Store-bought leave-in spray (no rinse required)
• Cream: Light all-in-one moisturizer
• Oil: Spray-on oil mist

Why it works: You get the advantages of the LCO method without investing much time in your hair. Perfect for when you’re in a hurry in the mornings.

Best for: Quick daily refreshes or moisture touch-ups on the go.

Protective Style LCO

• Liquid: Light mist of water or aloe vera
• Cream: Light moisturizer that won’t cake underneath braids/twists
• Oil: Sealing oil applied directly to roots and ends

Why it works: Protective styles need moisture too. This LCO twist will keep your hair healthy under weaves, braids, or wigs without causing frizz or buildup.

Best for: Keeping your hair moisturized while wearing long-term styles.

Why the LCO Method Matters

Moisture is the key to strong, healthy hair — but it doesn’t last if it’s not sealed in. The LCO Method creates layers that trap moisture inside the hair strand and keep it there. This reduces:

• Breakage and split ends
• Frizz and dullness
• Excessive dryness between wash days
• Detangling struggles

It also leaves your curls or coils more defined, soft, and manageable.

8. Be Patient and Consistent with Your Routine

Soaked hair is wet enough that it’s prepared to hold the moisture you’re putting on. Low porosity hair won’t respond overnight to new product or treatments. Be patient, watch what performs, and allow your hair to get used to it. Healthy hair takes time.

Daily Habits

What it means: Small, consistent daily habits like gentle detangling, moisturizing, or sleeping with a protective covering.

Why it matters: These small habits add up over time. Even 5 minutes a day can keep your hair healthy, reduce breakage, and balance moisture levels.

• Example: Applying a leave-in conditioner daily in the morning or wearing a satin scarf on your hair every night.

Weekly Treatment

What it is: Regular treatments performed weekly, such as deep conditioning, clarifying, or scalp massage.

Why it’s important: Weekly habits mend damage, disrupt build-up, and encourage hair growth. Sticking to a regimen creates a foundation for your hair’s well-being.

• Example: Allowing yourself a specific day of the week for deep conditioning and doing it every week consistently.

Long-Term Commitment

What it is: Understanding that hair care is a marathon, not a sprint. Observable effects will take months, not days.

Why it matters: Patience prevents frustration and keeps you from jumping from product or method to method. It allows your hair to get used to and actually benefit from your regimen.

• Example: Doing a moisturizing regimen for 3-6 months before making a final determination if it does work.

Tracking Progress

What it means: Journaling, picture-taking, or tracking changes on a consistent basis.

Why it matters: Tracking your habit helps you stay consistent and motivated. It also helps you learn what does and doesn’t work over the long term.

• Example: Taking monthly hair length and texture photos to see small changes.

Tweaking Without Quitting

What it means: Making minor adjustments to your habit when needed, but staying loyal to the basics.

Why it matters: Hair may shift seasonally, based on your diet, or due to health. Being patient is also letting your routine adjust without ditching it entirely.

• Example: Replacing your deep conditioner during winter to a more moisturizing formula but still deep conditioning every week.

Why Patience and Consistency Matter

Most people give up on their hair goals too soon because they don’t see immediate results. Healthy hair growth and transformation, nonetheless, take time—most likely weeks or months. Being consistent gives you a state of balance and power in moisture, while patience will prevent you from doing harm by over-manipulating your hair or product changing.

Conclusion

Taking care of low porosity hair isn’t rocket science—it just takes understanding and consistency. By doing these 8 easy rules, you give your hair exactly what it requires: penetrating moisture, products that play nice with your hair’s texture, and methods that encourage healthy maintenance. Low porosity hair isn’t “tough” or stubborn—just different. With the right mindset, you’ll see softer, more radiant, and more cooperative hair. Be persistent in your routine, hear what your hair is saying, and give it time to grow. 

FAQ

1. What is low porosity hair and how do I know if I have it?

Low porosity hair has a thick cuticle layer. This shields the hair from water and products penetrating into it. To check for porosity in your hair, put a strand of clean hair into water. If it sinks slowly or floats, then you are likely to have low porosity hair.

2. How often should I use protein treatments on my low porosity hair?

Use protein treatments on low porosity hair every month. This helps to restore and strengthen your hair. However, how often you need it may also differ based on the health and needs of your hair.

3. What kind of products are low porosity hair friendly?

Use light, water-based products on low porosity hair. Look for “non-greasy” or “lightweight” on the labels. Glycerin, honey, or aloe vera are good ingredients to search for.

4. How do I moisturize my low porosity hair properly?

Use a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing mask on low porosity hair. Seal with coconut or argan oil later. Humidifier can also hold moisture.

5. Can I heat style my low porosity hair?

Yes, but carefully. Use a heat protectant spray and low heat. High heat will damage your hair, so treat it gently.

6. How can I determine my hair porosity level?

You can learn your hair porosity by doing a strand test. See how your hair reacts to products. Or, talk to a hair professional.

7. What is the difference between low porosity and high porosity hair?

High porosity hair becomes dry quickly and is damaged. Low porosity hair is hard for moisture to get into because its cuticle layer is dense.

8. How do I care for low porosity hair?

Care for low porosity hair with a light, sulfate-free shampoo and moisturizing conditioner. Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to avoid breakage. Avoid heavy product buildup that can weigh your hair down.